is it safe to visit st petersburg now

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Is Saint Petersburg Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

On Feb. 24, 2022, Russia invaded its neighbor country Ukraine, starting a war between these two countries.

This act of invasion caused many Ukrainians to flee their country and seek shelter in places like Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, etc…

At this time, we recommend no travel to Russia or Ukraine, or any neighboring countries for your own safety.

Russia : Safety by City

• Nizhny Novgorod
• Novosibirsk
• Saint Petersburg
• Yekaterinburg

Saint Petersburg is Russia’s second-largest city and one of the main reasons tourists go to visit Russia.

It is located on the Neva River, at the head of the Gulf of Finland on the Baltic Sea and founded by Tsar Peter the Great

It was called Saint Petersburg (Peter’s city) for a while, but in September 1914, its name was changed to Petrograd, then to Leningrad, and finally in 1991 back to Saint Petersburg.

It was also the capital of Russia for a while. This city is filled with history, but Saint Petersburg is also one of the most modern cities in Russia, apart from being its cultural capital.

It also has a couple of Unesco World Heritage Sites, like the Historic Centre of Saint Petersburg and Related Groups of Monuments.

And of course, don’t forget the Hermitage, one of the largest art museums in the world.

• Warnings & Dangers in Saint Petersburg

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Generally speaking, Saint Petersburg today is safe as much as other countries in Europe, despite its problematic history with criminal activity in the 90s. However, if you’re planning on traveling to Saint Petersburg, keep in mind that you should always keep your guard up and remain aware of your surroundings, just in case.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Generally speaking, transportation in Saint Petersburg is safe, but you should bear in mind that kidnappings have been known to happen, mostly in unlicensed taxis, so be careful when hailing one on the streets. Keep in mind that the most dangerous areas where small crime tends to occur are the underground walkways, called “perekhods”. Only use official services like Yandex Taxi, Uber or Gett taxi.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

Pickpocketing is very common in Saint Petersburg, and surprisingly it is mostly performed by groups of children. Pay attention to your belongings, don’t leave them in plain sight and be especially careful in crowded places like stations or near tourist attractions.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

Saint Petersburg isn’t particularly susceptible to natural disasters. Some blizzards and snowstorms are possible during winter which can affect the traffic and delay your flights. During winter, be prepared to face the below-freezing temperatures.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

The situation improved drastically when it comes to kidnappings and muggings. Generally, never accept free drinks or food when you’re in a club or a bar. Drink spiking and then attacking and robbing the victim have been reported on numerous occasions.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

After the recent terrorist attack in the subway in St. Petersburg the probability of this situation happening again is high.

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

There are many scams in Saint Petersburg, usually performed by children trying to distract you and then steal some money from you. Never talk to strange kids on the street. Also, you should avoid playing street gambling games.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Women are generally safe in Saint Petersburg, though you should avoid finding yourself alone in clubs or bars, and of course, apply all normal precaution measures like avoiding remote and poorly lit streets and areas.

• So... How Safe Is Saint Petersburg Really?

Saint Petersburg, like the rest of Russia, experienced a rise when it came to crime rates during the 1990s.

Violent crime, as well as petty crime and scams, have increased, but the biggest part of the violence was within the criminal groups themselves, and it didn’t affect foreigners that much.

However, it decreased since the 90s, so right now, for tourists, major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg aren’t more dangerous than any other European city, they’re even less so.

When it comes to authority officials, you should keep in mind that they usually don’t speak English, so be understanding if someone doesn’t know how to communicate with you.

Speaking about the officials, don’t ever try to bribe them: you will be charged with bribery.

Bear in mind that if you are a member of the LGBT community, there is no reason to avoid Saint Petersburg altogether but you should refrain from any public displays of affection.

As of June 2013, “homosexual propaganda to minors” is prohibited, which means that any discussion of gay rights or homosexuality issues in the presence of minors is punishable by law.

While you walk around Saint Petersburg, you might encounter police officials that may demand to see your papers to check if you have been registered within 7 business days of your arrival into Saint Petersburg.

You shouldn’t have any problems with this, because if you stay in a hotel then you are automatically registered and will be handed a confirmation paper.

• How Does Saint Petersburg Compare?
• Useful Information

Most countries do need a visa to enter Russia, and if you’re a U.S. citizen you must possess both a valid U.S. passport and a bona fide visa issued by a Russian Embassy or Consulate. None of the nationals that do need a visa can acquire one upon arrival, so make sure you apply for your visa in advance. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.

Russian ruble is the official currency in Saint Petersburg. ATMs are widespread throughout the country and credit cards are accepted everywhere.

Saint Petersburg has a highly continental influenced climate characterized by warm to hot and dry summers and extremely cold, freezing winters with temperatures as low as -30°C – sometimes even lower, with heavy snowfall.

Pulkovo Airport is an international airport serving Saint Petersburg, Russia. It consists of one terminal, Terminal 1 which is located 23 km south of the city center.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we advise getting travel insurance when traveling to Saint Petersburg, because it would cover not only medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Saint Petersburg Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Russia - Safety by City

• Where to Next?

5 Reviews on Saint Petersburg

Took a package tour serveral years ago from Finland through St P and down to Moscow by train. Probably the entire contingent of older Canadian tourists experienced multiple pickpocket incidents, including on crowded Metro cars. One person was sandwiched between two people in a subway turnstile who discretely picked their pocket. Another had a daypack slashed with a razor. Any interesting road scam was when the chartered tour bus (with Finnish plates) was hit by a Russian driver. After police arrived, the hat was passed on the bus to pay the “fine” and settle up with police & driver.

St. Petersburg is one of the safest cities in Russia.

I note the subtle anti Russia statements at the introduction.. Russia’s security concerns are in fact genuine. NATO expansion eastward is seen by Russians as directed against their country. Putin has been clear for many years that if continued, the expansion would likely be met with serious resistance by the Russians, even with military action. The Ukraine military had killed almost 15000 Russian speaking Ukrainians in the east in the lead up to the invasion. No complaints from the west. The usa has been looking forward to this war and preparing Ukraine for many years to fight as their proxy. Problem is that the usa is losing and will ultimately lose. Yet again.

Street scams? I’m a Brit in Saint Petersburg, 12 years, and I’ve NEVER seen any street scams. Yes, there are pickpockets, but nothing like those in Italy or Spain. The above review about a bag being slashed sounds brutal and violent. The tactic is never confrontational and is just a way to enter your bag without you knowing. Again, it’s used in other European countries.

My advice is simple – keep your passport etc. in your hotel room and take photos of your passport, visa, migration card and registration. Keep your wallet in a zipped pocket and remove it if you ever leave your coat. It’s common to hang up your coat etc. in cafes and bars, and common sense should tell you to remove valuables. I’m more cautious in the UK, to be honest.

Guys, avoid girls who want to take you to a bar that seems empty but has a lot of staff. These girls are paid to bring you there, have a few drinks, then when you get the bill, drinks cost about £30 a piece. Only enter bars that have a lot of other people, a mixture of different people.

I recommend that you download Yandex Go, a taxi app, and Yandex Maps, Yandex Metro, and Yandex Eda (food delivery).

Hi Brit, what is it like right now (Feb 2023) for travel ? I want to visit for 4 days. Thanks

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Article Contents

• Saint Petersburg : Safety by City
• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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Is it possible to visit Russia as a tourist in 2023?

Yes, traveling to Russia as a tourist in 2023 is possible. Here’s what to look out for if you’re preparing for your dream trip. 

Visa requirements

First things first, it is worth checking if you need a visa to cross the Russian border. In 2023, citizens of some 65 countries can visit Russia without a visa. This includes most of the post-Soviet states like Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, as well as Ukraine.

Additionally, citizens of some countries in South and Central America – including Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Panama, Peru, Venezuela, Guatemala, Honduras, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Uruguay, Ecuador – do not need a visa to travel to Russia.

Citizens of Israel, South Africa, Cuba, Montenegro, Thailand, South Korea, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Andorra, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Mongolia, Botswana enjoy visa-free regime with Russia, too.

For the full list of countries, click here .

* Data for the infographics is from November 2022 and was obtained from the Russian consular information website.

* The status of a particular country is subject to change. We advise additionally researching the relevant information in each particular case before booking any trip to Russia.

* Visa waivers may apply for holders of diplomatic or military service passports, select businessmen, air crew members, members of a ship or train crew, professional truck drivers, organized tourist groups and people who have official permission to live in some border regions.

Is it safe to travel to Russia right now?

Russia as a travel destination received a fair share of negative PR from various sources in early 2022.

Some official travel accounts run by governments of countries like the U.S. , Australia , Great Britain and others advise their citizens to abstain from non-essential travel to the country.

That said, it is always advisable to evaluate safety risks when traveling to any foreign country. Traveling to Russia is no exception. However, Moscow, St. Petersburg and other major Russian cities have been widely regarded as being safe , especially in comparison to other popular tourist destinations.

Little has changed in major Russian cities from the point of view of tourists or local residents. Consequently, the most extreme and vocal concerns over security may be disregarded as being too alarmist.

That said, logistics pose the greatest challenge for tourists traveling to Russia in 2023. A number of countries closed their national airspace for Russian air companies resulting in more complicated logistics for tourists who intend to visit Russia in 2023.

However, specific changes depend on a particular country from where a tourist departs. In some cases, direct flight routes remain intact. For example, nothing has changed for tourists from China, India, Turkey, Middle Eastern countries and the majority of post-Soviet states. They can book direct flights to Russia’s main airports.

Tourists departing from European capitals will have to book connecting flights via Turkey or countries in the Middle East. This makes tickets more expensive and flights longer. However, it is still possible to travel to Russia from virtually any country in the world.

It should be noted that every country has its own nuances that must be taken into account beforehand. For example, the Indian Embassy in Russia advises Indian nationals against traveling to Russia via third countries. According to the embassy website, Indian travelers should choose only direct flights from Delhi to Moscow, otherwise they risk being denied entry into Russia.

In another instance, the British government prohibited its citizens from purchasing tickets on Russian airlines that were under sanctions. Nonetheless, the British authorities made an exception for those journeys originating in or within Russia: in this case, British nationals may purchase tickets from Russian companies without breaching UK sanctions.

Covid restrictions, vaccination status & quarantine

In 2022, Russian authorities canceled Covid-related restrictions for Russian citizens and foreign tourists, alike.

In 2023, foreign nationals no longer need to provide results of a negative PCR test when entering Russia by any mode of transport. Therefore, foreign travelers no longer need to take a coronavirus test in advance before departure.

Furthermore, Russian authorities lifted Covid-related restrictions that required visitors to provide a specific reason for visiting the country facilitating tourist traveling.

The only remaining Covid-related regulation is a requirement to fill in a questionnaire. Passengers – both Russian and foreign citizens – will be asked to fill out the paper version of the questionnaire on board during their flight to Russia.

Click here to find out who can travel to Russia without a visa in 2023.

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Is it Safe to Travel to St. Petersburg FL: Safety Guide for 2024

• Updated on March 5, 2024
• Safety Guide
• Florida , St. Petersburg

What You Will Learn (Click to Expand)

Introduction to st. petersburg, fl, the charm of st. petersburg as a travel destination.

St. Petersburg, known affectionately as “The Sunshine City,” holds a Guinness World Record for the most consecutive sunny days, making it an irresistible destination for those in pursuit of warmth and clear skies.

Here, the seamless blend of a traditional beach getaway with the cultural vibrancy of urban life entices visitors.

One can bask on pristine white sands during the day and delve into the eclectic downtown scene by night—a true allure for travelers of all tastes.

Safety Considerations for 2024

As you gear up for your adventure to St. Petersburg, FL, it’s wise to weigh the safety considerations specific to 2024. It’s comforting to know that, generally, St. Petersburg is a welcoming location for tourists.

However, staying informed about the latest local developments, such as any adjustments to public policies or alterations in areas of interest due to ongoing events, will ensure your visit is not just enjoyable but also safe.

Authorities regularly monitor and update security protocols, so it’s a good idea to review travel advisories before and during your trip.

Remember that preparation and awareness can significantly enhance your safety, so ensure you’re in the know about the necessary precautions to take while basking in the delights of St. Petersburg this year.

Now that we’ve set the stage, let’s navigate through the query Is it Safe to Travel to St. Petersburg FL, examining key aspects that will put your mind at ease during your stay.

Assessing the Risks in St. Petersburg

1. understanding st. petersburg's crime rate.

When contemplating a visit to St. Petersburg, it’s important to consider the local crime rate to gauge the level of safety. According to recent statistics, St. Petersburg has a crime rate of 3,927 total crimes per 100,000 people, which includes 3,303 property crimes and 624 violent crimes per 100,000 residents.

This figure is notably higher than the national average. Although these numbers may raise eyebrows, context is essential; many other U.S. cities of comparable size have crime rates that are higher still.

Many crimes in St. Petersburg have seen a downward trend between 2008 and 2020 . Significant decreases were noted in larceny, burglary, aggravated assault, and car theft, while only the rate of reported rapes has shown an increase.

It is essential to interpret these statistics with nuance; they reflect broad trends and do not necessarily indicate the day-to-day experiences of residents or visitors. Crime rates can also vary significantly from one neighborhood to another.

Understanding the nature of these statistics can empower you to make informed decisions about where to go and what precautions to take during your visit to ensure a pleasant stay.

Prepare for an unforgettable adventure with these essential travel tips in St. Petersburg .

2. Natural Disasters and Weather Concerns

St. Petersburg is blessed with abundant sunshine, but that doesn’t mean it’s exempt from weather-related concerns. You’ll need to be particularly vigilant if you’re traveling during hurricane season, which runs from June through November.

During these months, the risk of hurricanes is heightened, and the likelihood of experiencing severe weather increases. August through October, especially, is the peak time for such activity.

Even outside of hurricane season, the weather in St. Petersburg can be dynamic. Florida is renowned for having the highest lightning density in the United States, so if you find yourself outdoors during a thunderstorm, it’s imperative to seek shelter immediately. Though thunderstorms are often brief, they can be intense.

In winter, expect cooler and generally more placid weather conditions, with minimal risk of severe storms. Nonetheless, on rare occasions, winter cold fronts can bring freezing temperatures and even blizzards, which can disrupt travel plans.

Visitors should stay informed about the current weather conditions and forecasts during their stay. Precautionary measures and preparation can mitigate most risks associated with the weather in St. Petersburg, ensuring your vacation isn’t overshadowed by uncontrollable elements.

By respecting the forces of nature and staying alert to timely updates, you can focus on the beauty and attractions of St. Petersburg without undue worry.

Navigating the Neighborhoods

3. safest areas in st. petersburg for tourists.

If safety is a top priority for your trip to St. Petersburg, you’ll be pleased to locate several neighborhoods that are welcoming and secure for tourists. Downtown St. Petersburg is an excellent starting point; it’s a vibrant hub with a lower crime rate compared to other parts of the city.

Chock-full of cultural sites, restaurants, and entertainment, downtown radiates an energy that feels both exciting and secure.

St. Pete Beach is another haven for visitors seeking serenity and safety. Renowned for its sandy shores and inviting waters, it’s a place where you can relax with fewer concerns about crime, thanks to its status as one of the most frequented tourist spots.

For those in search of a quieter experience, the Old Northeast and Snell Isle areas offer a peaceful residential atmosphere with lush parks and pleasant streets ideal for strolling or cycling.

And let’s not forget about Treasure Island and Madeira Beach, two coastal neighborhoods known for family-friendly environments and low crime rates, perfect for those traveling with little ones or looking for a calm beach experience.

In these safe spots, you can immerse yourself in the local St. Pete’s charm with far less concern for your well-being.

4. Areas to Exercise Caution

While St. Petersburg is an inviting destination, certain areas do warrant additional caution. It’s wise to stay mindful when visiting less-frequented neighborhoods, particularly if you plan to explore after dark.

Some regions have higher crime rates, so it’s best to consult with local sources like your hotel staff or police for advice on areas that might be risky.

Areas south of Central Avenue, sometimes referred to as the “ Midtown ” area, have been noted for a higher incidence of crime relative to the tourist-heavy and well-patrolled downtown areas.

It’s important not to let this deter you from enjoying the city’s offerings but to exercise due diligence and heightened awareness in these parts.

It’s also advisable for visitors to steer clear of poorly lit areas at night and places where there are few people around. When attending events, check if the neighborhoods are considered safe, especially if returning late.

By staying informed and cautious, you can confidently navigate St. Petersburg, reserving your energy for the rich experiences that await.

Practical Safety Tips for Visitors

5. personal safety measures while exploring.

Exploring St. Petersburg’s attractions should be an enjoyable experience, and taking some personal safety measures can help ensure that. Firstly, always be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts . If an area or situation feels unsafe, it’s best to leave.

When venturing out, moving in pairs or groups is safer than being alone, particularly at night. Plan your routes ahead of time, sticking to well-lit and populated streets. If you have to walk at night, avoid shortcuts through alleys or parks.

It’s advisable to minimize the amount of cash and valuables you carry. Should you need to withdraw money, opt for ATMs in secured areas like banks or major retail spaces. Always check that no one is watching as you input your PIN, and put money away securely before leaving the ATM.

Be mindful when using smartphones or other devices in public, as they can be attractive targets for thieves. Limit their use in busy or confined areas such as public transport.

By adopting these straightforward practices, you can significantly lower the risk of encounters that could disrupt your travel experience in St. Petersburg.

6. Keeping Your Belongings Secure

To make the most of your St. Petersburg visit, keeping your belongings secure should be a top agenda. Travel light whenever possible; carrying numerous bags not only tires you out but might also attract unwanted attention. Use a sturdy bag that closes securely and consider wearing it across your body to prevent snatch-and-grab thefts.

Consider using hotel safes or secure storage for your valuables like passports, jewelry, or large sums of cash . When you’re out, keep necessary items such as money, credit cards, and identification on your person, ideally in a concealed pocket or a money belt.

Always be attentive to your belongings in public places. It’s easy to get distracted by the sights and sounds, but an unwatched bag is an easy target. If dining al fresco, keep your bag hooked on your knee rather than hanging on the back of a chair or the ground.

Make copies of important documents such as passports, travel insurance policies, and emergency contacts. Store these separately from the originals or keep digital copies securely online.

By ensuring your possessions are safely stowed and attentively managed, you can explore St. Petersburg’s attractions without the burden of worry.

Uncover the top spots for the best shopping in St. Petersburg and make your visit a memorable retail adventure.

Hair Tools Travel Bag

Seasonal safety advice, 7. preparing for hurricane season and severe weather.

Preparing for hurricane season and severe weather is crucial when visiting St. Petersburg, especially if you’re traveling between June and November . Check forecasts regularly and sign up for local weather alerts. Familiarize yourself with the nearest emergency shelters and evacuation routes, both in the city and in your particular accommodation.

Should a storm threaten during your stay, it’s essential to have an emergency kit ready. This should include basics like water, non-perishable food, first-aid supplies, flashlights, extra batteries, and any necessary medications . It’s also sensible to have a portable charger for your phone and backups of important documents.

Know the signs of severe weather and understand the local warning systems, such as sirens or emergency broadcasts. In the case of a hurricane, local authorities may issue a mandatory evacuation order. If this happens, follow all instructions promptly and do not attempt to ride out the storm.

Rip currents can be a danger on otherwise sunny days at the beach. Always swim near lifeguards, pay attention to flag warnings, and avoid going into the water if you’re not confident about the conditions or your swimming ability.

Proper preparedness can make all the difference in ensuring your stay remains as uninterrupted by weather as possible.

8. Water Safety: Beaches and Boating

When it comes to water activities in St. Petersburg, safety is as important as fun. The beaches are undoubtedly a major allure, but awareness of marine life and water conditions is key to a safe experience.

Before you dip into the waters, acquaint yourself with local marine wildlife. Remember, unprovoked shark attacks are very rare, particularly along the Gulf Coast . Still, maintaining respect for all marine creatures and keeping a safe distance if encountered ensures your safety and theirs.

Be careful of stingrays, especially in warm, shallow waters where they like to hide under the sand. To avoid startling them, shuffle your feet when entering the ocean—a simple maneuver known as the “stingray shuffle.”

Stay vigilant for rip currents that can quickly carry you away from shore. If caught in a rip current, don’t fight it. Float or swim parallel to the shore until free of the current, then head back to the beach.

When boating, ensure there are enough life jackets for everyone on board, and check local boating laws and weather conditions.

By abiding by these precautions, you can relish the stunning coastlines and waterways of St. Petersburg with peace of mind.

Special Considerations for Different Travelers

9. family-friendly recommendations for safe travel.

Traveling with family entails an added layer of diligence to ensure everyone’s safety, especially with little adventurers in tow. St. Petersburg is accommodating to families, offering a host of attractions that are not only enjoyable but also secure for all age groups.

Select family-oriented neighborhoods for your accommodation, such as St. Pete Beach or the gated community of Tierra Verde , renowned for their safety and family-friendly amenities. When visiting attractions, keep an eye on the children and set up a meeting point in case someone gets lost. It can be helpful to equip children with identification bracelets with contact details, just in case.

Parks, beaches, and museums in St. Petersburg often have dedicated child-friendly zones with additional safety measures. At the beach, ensure children play within designated swimming areas supervised by lifeguards. Stick to well-reviewed and popular dining and entertainment options, which tend to be family-centric and safer by design.

By planning with a family-first mindset and following these safety guidelines, your trip to St. Petersburg can be a memorable and trouble-free experience for the whole household.

10. Solo Traveler Safety in St. Petersburg

In case of an emergency during your stay in St. Petersburg, it’s vital to know how to swiftly get in touch with local police and medical assistance. For immediate police or medical emergencies, dialing 911 is the standard procedure across the United States, and this is no different in St. Petersburg.

For non-emergencies, the St. Petersburg Police Department can be reached at their non-emergency number: (727) 893-7780 . It’s a good idea to have this number saved in your phone should you need assistance without the urgency of a 911 call.

Also, have the address and contact numbers for the nearest hospitals or urgent care centers handy. St. Petersburg has several well-equipped facilities, including Bayfront Health St. Petersburg and Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, which offer emergency room services.

For tourists from abroad, ascertain if your country has a consulate or embassy in the area that can offer additional support in an emergency. These details should be part of your pre-travel research.

With these crucial contact details at your fingertips, you can feel assured that help is available if you ever need it.

From beaches to theme parks, explore the Best Places to Visit in Florida with our guide.

12. Accessing Consular Help for International Visitors

International visitors in St. Petersburg who find themselves in need of consular assistance—whether for legal troubles, lost passports, or emergent situations—should immediately reach out to their country’s nearest consulate or embassy. It’s a good practice to note down the contact information and address of your home country’s consular offices before arriving in the U.S.

The U.S. Department of State’s website offers a comprehensive list of foreign embassies and consulates in the United States . For non-urgent matters, such as renewing a passport or getting travel advice, appointments can often be booked in advance. In an emergency, most consulates offer a hotline for immediate assistance.

Having this information accessible is crucial for international tourists to ensure they have the necessary support during their travels.

Comparing St. Petersburg to Other Florida Cities

13. safety in st. petersburg versus tampa.

When comparing the safety of St. Petersburg with that of its neighboring city, Tampa, you might notice that both places offer similar safety ratings. However, it is interesting to note that Tampa reports a lower overall crime rate in terms of statistics.

Safety in any urban area is multifaceted, often varying by neighborhood rather than the entire city. For instance, both cities offer districts with vibrant nightlife and heightened security measures, such as the well-patrolled downtown areas.

In St. Petersburg, the presence of tourist-centric spots and cultural locations adds to the city’s overall safety. Compared to Tampa, which is larger and has more extensive urban areas, St. Petersburg’s smaller size can contribute to a more controlled and patrolled environment conducive to tourist safety.

While each city has areas that might require extra caution, especially at night, they both offer numerous safe and family-friendly options for tourists and locals alike .

Ultimately, choosing between St. Petersburg and Tampa for safety reasons might come down to the particular areas you plan to visit and your travel itinerary specifics.

14. Where St. Petersburg Stands in Terms of Statewide Safety

In terms of statewide safety, St. Petersburg stands as a city that has made considerable strides toward reducing crime and enhancing the safety of its residents and visitors. When compared with other cities in Florida, St. Petersburg is reportedly 21% safer, reflecting the efforts of local law enforcement and community initiatives.

Florida’s cities vary widely in safety, with some areas known for high tourism also being hotspots for petty crimes, such as theft. St. Petersburg distinguishes itself with specific neighborhoods that are models of community-led safety and low crime rates, such as Crescent Lake and Snell Isle .

However, it is important to remember that St. Petersburg’s safety can’t be uniformly applied across all its areas. It does have neighborhoods that require visitors to be more vigilant, similar to other cities in Florida and throughout the U.S.

Whether you are considering moving to or visiting St. Petersburg, it is a city on the upswing regarding safety, with an eye toward becoming an even more secure place in the future.

Current Travel Advisories and Updates

Latest security precautions for st. petersburg, fl.

For those planning to visit St. Petersburg, staying updated on the latest security precautions is a critical component of trip planning. The city consistently adapts its safety measures to address current issues, be they related to public health, crime, or even large-scale events that can impact citywide security.

It’s important to check for any public advisories issued by the City of St. Petersburg or the St. Petersburg Police Department , especially if your visit coincides with significant events or festivals when the city may see a higher volume of visitors and increased security.

In addition to traditional safety concerns, travelers in recent times have also had to consider health-related precautions. Depending on the prevailing situation, there may be guidelines in place that address pandemic-related safety, such as social distancing or mask mandates, which can change relatively quickly.

By heeding these latest security precautions, visitors can enjoy all that St. Petersburg has to offer with peace of mind, knowing they’re taking proactive steps to ensure their safety.

Because unexpected things happen even on the best trips – discover the peace of mind that comes with our travel insurance coverage.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Safety in St. Petersburg, FL

What is the overall risk level for travelers visiting st. petersburg.

The overall risk level for travelers visiting St. Petersburg is generally considered to be moderate . Like any urban area, there are risks associated with petty crime, but with proper precautions and awareness, visitors can enjoy a safe trip. St. Petersburg’s tourist areas are particularly well-patrolled and equipped with safety measures.

Are there any current travel advisories specific to St. Petersburg?

As of now, there are no specific travel advisories for St. Petersburg beyond the standard guidance provided for all travelers to urban areas . However, it’s always a good practice to check the latest updates from government and local sources before and during your trip for any changes.

How does the crime rate in St. Petersburg compare to other U.S. cities?

The crime rate in St. Petersburg is higher than the national average but is in line with or lower than many other medium-sized and larger U.S. cities . Over recent years, the city has seen a downtrend in various types of crimes, making it comparatively safer.

Can families feel secure while vacationing in St. Petersburg?

Families can feel secure while vacationing in St. Petersburg . The city offers many family-friendly areas with abundant activities that are safe for children and adults alike. With appropriate caution and awareness, family trips to St. Petersburg can be enjoyable and safe.

What are the best practices for ensuring personal safety as a solo traveler in St. Petersburg?

For solo travelers in St. Petersburg, best practices include staying in well-populated areas, avoiding night outings alone, using trusted transport options, and staying discreet about travel plans. Always maintain situational awareness and trust your instincts if something feels off.

What are the safest areas of St. Petersburg Florida?

The safest areas of St. Petersburg, Florida include the neighborhoods of Central Oak Park and Crescent Lake , as well as the tourist favorites Downtown St. Petersburg and St. Pete Beach. These areas are known for their lower crime rates and family-friendly environments.

What is the windiest month in St. Petersburg, FL?

The windiest month in St. Petersburg, FL, is typically March , where wind speeds can occasionally reach over 10 miles per hour . This is the time of year to hold onto your hats and ensure any outdoor activities are suited for breezier conditions.

When does the rain fall in St. Petersburg, FL?

In St. Petersburg, FL, the rainiest season falls during the summer months, with the highest chances of rainy days being in June, July, and August , ensuring you have an umbrella or raincoat handy if visiting during this period is wise.

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Conclusion: Is it Safe to Travel to St. Petersburg FL

In conclusion, St. Petersburg, FL, presents itself as a city that is proactively addressing safety and security concerns to ensure a welcoming environment for its visitors. The general safety level is moderate, and like any other popular destination, it comes with the need to exercise common sense and take standard travel precautions.

With its sunny disposition, family-friendly areas, and cultural vibrancy, St. Petersburg continues to be a compelling destination for tourists. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on the beaches, enjoying the local cuisine, or exploring the arts scene, there’s a sense of safety that complements the enjoyment in “ The Sunshine City .”

Remember, keeping abreast of local weather patterns, particularly if visiting during hurricane season, is essential. Likewise, staying informed on the latest health and security advisories can make a significant difference in the quality and safety of your trip.

So pack your bags, apply sunscreen, and set out to explore St. Petersburg, keeping in mind the safety tips mentioned here. With a little preparation, your visit should be as pleasant as the weather famously is in this charming Floridian city.

Have you visited St. Petersburg, FL, recently, or are you a local? We want to hear from you! Share your experiences and insights in the comments to help fellow travelers make informed decisions. Let’s create a community-driven guide on the safety of traveling to St. Petersburg. Don’t forget to share this post with your friends and family to get their thoughts too!

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

FCDO advises against all travel to Russia

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel.

FCDO advises British nationals against all travel to Russia due to the risks and threats from its continuing invasion of Ukraine. The situation in Russia is unpredictable. This includes:

• security incidents, such as drone attacks, happening in some parts of the country
• lack of available flights to return to the UK
• limited ability for the UK government to provide consular assistance

There is also a high likelihood that terrorists will try to carry out attacks, including in major cities. See ‘Safety and Security’ section .

Security situation in Russia

The Russian invasion of Ukraine continues. There are reports of drone attacks and explosions in areas in western and southern Russia, particularly near the Russian border with Ukraine, Moscow and St Petersburg.

Political rallies and demonstrations can take place in Moscow, St Petersburg and across Russia. Check the local media for the latest information. Be vigilant and avoid any political demonstrations or gatherings.

The situation remains unpredictable and could escalate without warning.

Leaving Russia

FCDO advises British nationals to consider leaving Russia.

If you do not need to be in Russia, we strongly advise you to consider leaving.

You cannot fly directly from Russia to the UK or through EU countries. Commercial flight options are limited and can sell out quickly. Check with your airline or travel provider.

British nationals should exercise extreme caution at all times. Travel within or out of Russia is at your own risk.

You cannot fly direct from Russia to the UK or through EU countries. There are limited commercial airlines with indirect flights via the Middle East, Serbia and Turkey. Check the latest information with your airline or travel provider.

Land borders may be busy. Be prepared for a long wait to exit Russia. You may also be questioned at the border. During periods of unrest, check the local media for updates on the situation before travelling.

Road border crossings between Finland and Russia will be closed until at least 11 February 2024. Consult the  Finnish border guard website  for up-to-date information. Further changes may be announced at short notice.

Some European countries have restricted or banned the entry of vehicles registered in Russia, this includes:

If you plan to drive a vehicle registered in Russia into Europe check that you are eligible to do so.

Some bus companies have international routes. The situation may change quickly. From 18 November 2023, Finland will restrict entry at some road border crossings (See ‘Travelling from Russia to Finland’). Check these companies for availability of buses, timetables and tickets:

• Ecolines – buses to Riga (Latvia), Tallinn (Estonia), Vilnius (Lithuania) and other destinations in Europe
• Baltic Shuttle – buses from St Petersburg to Tallinn (Estonia)
• Lux Express – buses from St Petersburg to Riga (Latvia), Tallinn (Estonia)

Travelling from Russia to Latvia

Check the travel advice for Latvia .

See the Latvian government website for information on crossing the border.

Travelling from Russia to Finland

Check the travel advice for Finland .

Road border crossings between Finland and Russia will remain closed until further notice. Consult the  Finnish border guard website  for up-to-date information. Further changes may be announced at short notice.

The border crossing points for maritime traffic at Haapasaari, the port of Nuijamaa and Santio will be closed to leisure boating from 15 April until further notice.

The train service from Russia to Finland is no longer available.

Travelling from Russia to Estonia

Check the travel advice for Estonia .

See the Estonian police and border guard website for information on crossing the border.

From 1 February 2024, it is not possible to cross the border by vehicle via the Narva-Ivangorod crossing point, whilst construction works take place on the Russian side. The crossing is open to pedestrians.

Travelling from Russia to Lithuania

Check the travel advice for Lithuania .

If you’re planning to cross into Lithuania by road from Kaliningrad oblast at the Kybartai border crossing point, see the Lithuanian state border crossing website .

Travelling from Russia to Norway

Check the travel advice for Norway .

Staying in Russia

If you decide to stay in Russia, you should:

• keep your departure plans under constant review
• ensure your travel documents are up to date
• follow local media
• stay alert to security warnings and follow the advice of local authorities
• take cover in buildings or underground and avoid windows in the event of drone attack
• sign up to email alerts for Russia travel advice

Read FCDO advice on what to do if you’re affected by a crisis abroad and how to prepare.

Support for British nationals in Russia

The British Embassy in Moscow and British Consulate Ekaterinburg are open, but the situation could change at short notice.

In person consular support in Russia is limited. It is very limited in parts of Russia because of the security situation and the size of the country, particularly in the North Caucasus.

If you need consular assistance, call our 24-hour helpline +7 495 956 7200 and select the option for consular services for British nationals.

Contact the Russian emergency services on 112.

Dual nationals

Dual British-Russian nationals are treated as Russian nationals by local authorities. The consular support FCDO can provide is severely limited. If you are arrested or detained, Russian authorities are unlikely to allow us consular access.

In 2022, Russia declared a partial mobilisation of Russian citizens to join the military forces. Military recruitment continues. Anyone with a Russian passport could be conscripted.

In August, Russian law was amended to stop Russian nationals eligible for military conscription from leaving Russia from the day their draft notice appears on the federal electronic conscription register.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Related content

Invasion of ukraine.

• UK visa support for Ukrainian nationals
• Move to the UK if you're coming from Ukraine
• Homes for Ukraine: record your interest
• Find out about the UK’s response

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Is St Petersburg Florida Safe? Everything To Know Before You Visit In 2024!

by waynekask | Mar 31, 2024 | Blog , Gulf Coast | 0 comments

Last Updated on March 31, 2024

Are you planning a Florida vacation and wondering, if St. Petersburg, Florida safe?

Safety is an important consideration when planning your vacations, so this is a great thing to wonder about when traveling to Florida!

The Sunshine City is located on a peninsula of Pinellas County just off the coast of Tampa and is home to some of the most popular beaches around.

Because there are so many travelers that visit the area, safety can sometimes be a concern among locals and tourists.  Because of its prime location, it remains popular and well-traveled.

I was just in St. Petersburg for a friend’s wedding with a large group of people and kids, and safety wasn’t a concern for anyone during our trip.

In this post, we’re going to share with you everything that you need to know about the safety of St. Petersburg and some tips for keeping yourself safe.

Table of Contents

Is St Petersburg Florida Safe For Visitors?

Is St Petersburg Safe For Families?

What Part of St Petersburg is The Riskiest Or Most Dangerous?

What Part Is The Safest?

St Petersburg Florida Tips

Is St Petersburg Safe – FAQs

Wrap-Up: Is St Petersburg Florida Safe?

Is St Petersburg, Florida Safe For Visitors?

St. Petersburg has become one of the most popular places in the state of Florida to take a beach vacation, thanks to its stunning white sand beaches.

That being said, many visitors are concerned about the safety of the area and whether or not it’s a good idea to travel there.

The good news is that in general, St. Petersburg, Florida is a safe place for visitors.

Although the crime rate in the city is higher than in other Florida cities, most of these crimes take place in confined areas that you are able to avoid.

Most of the crimes here are also property crimes, so you don’t have to worry as much about violent crimes.

Types of crimes include petty theft, robbery, and motor vehicle theft.

Sticking to well-trafficked areas like the beach and downtown makes it easier to stay out of harm’s way while visiting.

Another thing that visitors do need to consider is natural disasters since Florida has a lot of hurricanes and they often hit the Tampa Bay area.

Planning your visit around hurricane season is ideal!

Just like with most other big cities, it comes with its problems, but it also has many great features that make St. Pete a great place to visit.

Photo credit – Unsplash by AK

Is St. Petersburg Safe For Families?

If you’re looking for the perfect place to take your family for a beach vacation, St. Petersburg can be just that for you!

While there are most definitely places that young families should avoid, most of the city is excellent and you don’t need to worry about crime.

And with a great family-friendly community and activities like the beach, state parks, and more in nearby Clearwater, it’s a great place for people of all ages.

Is It Safe For Solo Travelers?

Solo travel always comes with more risks than traveling with friends and family does, and that goes for traveling solo to St. Petersburg, Florida too.

One great thing to note is that crime has been going down in recent years, and although the crime rate is higher, it’s continually decreasing.

Solo travelers can definitely enjoy time in the St. Pete area by taking the same precautions that you would in any other large city.

This includes being aware of your surroundings, avoiding walking around at night, be cautious using public transportation, and don’t let people know you’re solo.

What Part Of St Petersburg Is The Riskiest Or Most Dangerous?

As with every big city, St. Petersburg has a few areas where crime seems to be found the most often.

These places should be avoided by visitors if possible. Here are those places.

Jordan Park

This St. Petersburg neighborhood has been known as one of the most dangerous parts of town for many years, although it has started to improve in the past decade.

You’ll often find quite a bit of crime here, which, unfortunately, deters people from the area. 

Bartlett Park

Here’s another area found in South St. Petersburg that is just a short drive from Jordan Park which tends to have a lot of crime throughout the year.

Because of how close these two neighborhoods are to each other, it makes it fairly easy to avoid them both.  Childs Park is another nearby to avoid.

While there are some areas that have the most crime, there are also different places that have the least amount of crime.

These are the safest neighborhoods in St. Petersburg.

Downtown St. Petersburg

This trendy area of the city is one of the best places for tourists and for those asking if St. Petersburg is safe, this is a safe place to go.

It’s full of boutique shops, restaurants, breweries, bars, art galleries, and so many more great places within walking distance of many hotels.

Here you’ll also find companies that offer dolphin cruises, water sports, and access to the St. Pete Pier.

Historic Kenwood

This historic neighborhood is charming and filled with beautiful homes.

The streets are lined with tall trees and it feels worlds apart from Downtown St. Pete.

There are several great coffee shops, breweries, restaurants, and more to check out here.

Located on a peninsula of the Gulf of Mexico, Snell Isle is another great, safe place in St. Petersburg to check out.

It’s home to a few parks and a famous golf course, as well as lots of residential areas.

For living, it’s a more expensive part of the city, but many of the homes are built with beautiful architecture.

Is St. Petersburg, Florida’s Crime Rate High?

When comparing the overall crime rates of St. Petersburg to other cities in Florida around the nation, we can see that it is higher than the average.

According to Neighborhood Scout, the crime statistics show that the rate in the city is around 32 per 1,000 residents.

This is higher than the Florida average, which is approximately 21 per 1,000 residents.

Most of these are property crimes, with nearly 26 of those 32 being property crimes including things like burglary and theft.

St. Petersburg, Florida Safety Tips

There are many precautions that you can take that will help keep you safe as you travel through the state of Florida.

Here are a few of the top things to remember during your visit.

1. Stick In Groups

While this is hard to do for solo travelers, it’s best to stick in groups while traveling in new areas.  This makes it harder for thieves or predators to target you.

Make up a meeting spot if you were to get separated, and always keep a close eye on children.

2. Leave Valuables At Home Or The Hotel

Having a bunch of valuables with you makes you more of a target for thieves and predators, so it’s best to leave those things at home or in your hotel.

Carry with you the things that you absolutely need and then plan to leave everything else behind.

3. Share Your Itinerary With A Trusted Friend

It’s always a good idea to share your itinerary with someone you trust, whether that be a family member or a friend.  

This way, someone knows where you’ll be and when they should expect to hear from you next.

This is especially important if you’re traveling solo, but it’s a good idea even if you’re traveling in a group.  It makes it easier to locate you if something were to happen.

4. Stay In Well-Lit Areas

One way to prevent becoming the victim of a property or violent crime is to stay in well-lit and well-trafficked areas. 

If you find yourself in a dark area, revert to somewhere that has street lights and more people, since these areas are less likely to have predators or thieves.

5. Know When Hurricane Season Is

Something that some people might not think of is when hurricane season is in Florida.

This season falls between June and November. During this time, the area is more susceptible to experiencing hurricanes.

If you’re visiting during this time, be sure to know what to do if there is a hurricane during your visit.

Where To Stay In St Petersburg Florida

1. the inn on third.

Photo credit – Expedia

⭐️ Rating: 9.1/10      📌 Location: 342 3 Avenue North, St Petersburg     Check Rates Here

If you’re looking for an affordable place to stay without sacrificing comfort and a good location, then The Inn On Third is your best option.

This historic inn features a unique and old-fashioned design and offers complimentary continental breakfast in the lobby.

Book the The Inn On Third

2. Avalon Hotel Downtown St. Petersburg

⭐️ Rating: 8.5/10      📌 Location: 443 4th Avenue North     Check Rates Here

The Avalon Hotel Downtown St. Petersburg is a uniquely designed boutique hotel located in the heart of Downtown St. Petersburg.

This hotel features beautiful Art Deco interiors and complete amenities for all guests.

It is also located just a few miles away from different attractions around St. Petersburg including the Dali’ Museum.

Book The Avalon Hotel Downtown St. Petersburg

3. Prestige Collection Boutique Hotel

⭐️ Rating: 9.1/10      📌 Location: 115 5th Avenue Northeast     Check Rates Here

If you’re looking for an elegant and comfortable stay in St. Petersburg, the Prestige Collection Boutique Hotel is an ideal choice.

This hotel is just 2 blocks away at the waterfront and is near to the city’s attractions and nightlife.

The Prestige also features an outdoor swimming pool and complete amenities in every room.

Book the Prestige Boutique Hotel

Is St. Petersburg Safer Than Tampa?

Both Tampa and St. Petersburg have similar safety ratings.  But Tampa does have a lower overall crime rate if you’re looking at crime statistics.

Is St. Petersburg A Good Place To Live In Florida?

With lots of job opportunities, great things to do, and plenty of housing, St. Petersburg, FL is a great place to live for prospective residents.

Especially if you love the beach, it’s a great city to consider!

Is Downtown St. Pete, FL Safe?

Yes, while St. Pete’s downtown area might have a bad reputation, it’s known to be pretty safe and has a lot for visitors to do.

Is it Safe to Go to St. Pete Beach?

Yes, of all of the places in St. Petersburg, St. Pete Beach is one of the safest places to go because it is so well-trafficked.

This makes it less likely for you to become the victim of a crime.

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Wrap-Up: Is St. Petersburg, Florida Safe?

If you’re traveling to Florida and wondering is St. Petersburg safe, you’re in the right place. There are many things to think about before visiting the city.

Overall, while the city does have a higher crime rate and there are areas that are more dangerous than others, St. Petersburg is a relatively safe city and is a great place for tourists.

So if you’re looking for somewhere to relax on the beach and enjoy the sunshine, this is the perfect place for you!

You May Be Interested In These Related Posts: 

Crab Island Tours- 5 Best In 2023!

Highest Rated Destin Dolphin & Sunset Cruises

15 Fun Indoor Activities In Destin Florida

  Motels In Destin Florida- 7 Amazing Places To Stay!

15 Awesome Miramar Beach Restaurants To Try!

10 Best Things To Do In Miramar Beach, Florida

Always On The Shore contains affiliate links and if you make a purchase, we make a small commission at no cost to you.

For more information, please read the disclaimer page . 

Booking a last-minute trip to St. Petersburg?  

If so, we have you covered.  Here are some top recommended tours and experiences!

Top Tours in Petersburg

Evening Yacht Cruise (With Optional Dinner In St Petersburg)

St Petersburg Speedboat Adventure (Top Rated Speedboat Sightseeing Tour)

St Petersburg Jungle Prada Site History Tour (Small Group History & Onsite Museum Tour)

Dolphin Cruise With Snorkeling to Shell Key   (2-Hour Small Group Tour From St Pete Beach )

Calypso Breeze Tropical Party Cruise  ( Fun Evening Cruise With Dinner & Drinks!)

Top Hotels In St Petersburg

Hollander Hotel – (Top-Rated Hotel Located In Downtown St Petersburg )

The Birchwood – (Cozy Hotel Near Beach Drive)

Hampton Inn & Suites – ( Best Rated Inn Near Major Attractions)

Crystal Bay Historic Park   – (Pet-Friendly Hotel In Central; Avenue)

  Looking To Get Around In Petersburg ? 

Check out rental car rates here! 🚗

Travel Resources

Book Your Next Trip!  For Accommodations and short-term rentals, I recommend Booking.com as they are the best in the business when it comes to rates and places to stay.

To Book Activities- For activities, I suggest booking with Viator , they have thousands of 5-star activities to choose from!

Looking To Start Your Own Travel Blog Or Take Yours To The Next Level? 

Check Out This Free Workshop! – I personally joined Scale Your Travel Blog in 2021 and my website has grown exponentially.  

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Hi, I'm Wayne! I'm an inspired traveler looking for the best beaches, attractions, restaurants, and more.

From Florida, The Caribbean, and the Atlantic Coast, my goal is to give you ideas for the best beach vacations and experiences!

Read more about my travels here!

Let Me Help You Plan Your Ultimate Florida Vacation!  Click For Details On The Travel Guide!

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Russia Travel Advisory

Travel advisory september 5, 2023, russia - level 4: do not travel.

Updated to remove COVID-specific information and the kidnapping risk indicator as well as updates to security risks.

Do not travel to Russia due to the unpredictable consequences of the  unprovoked full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russian military forces , the potential for  harassment and the singling out of U.S. citizens for detention by Russian government security officials , the  arbitrary enforcement of local law ,  limited flights into and out of Russia , the  Embassy’s limited ability to assist U.S. citizens in Russia , and the possibility of  terrorism .  U.S. citizens residing or travelling in Russia should depart immediately.  Exercise increased caution due to  the risk of wrongful detentions.

The U.S. government’s ability to provide routine or emergency services to U.S. citizens in Russia is severely limited, particularly in areas far from the U.S. Embassy in Moscow, due to Russian government limitations on travel for embassy personnel and staffing, and the ongoing suspension of operations, including consular services, at U.S. consulates.

There have been numerous reports of drone attacks, explosions, and fires in areas in Western and Southern Russia, particularly near the Russian border with Ukraine, as well as in Moscow and St. Petersburg. In the event of an emergency, U.S. citizens should follow instructions from local authorities and seek shelter immediately.

In September 2022, the Russian government mobilized citizens to the armed forces in support of its invasion of Ukraine. Russia may refuse to acknowledge dual nationals’ U.S. citizenship, deny their access to U.S. consular assistance, subject them to mobilization, prevent their departure from Russia, and/or conscript them. 

U.S. citizens should note that U.S. credit and debit cards no longer work in Russia, and options to electronically transfer funds from the United States are extremely limited due to sanctions imposed on Russian banks. There are reports of cash shortages within Russia.

Commercial flight options are extremely limited and are often unavailable on short notice. If you wish to depart Russia, you should make independent arrangements as soon as possible. The U.S. Embassy has severe limitations on its ability to assist U.S. citizens to depart the country and transportation options may suddenly become even more limited. Click  here  for Information for U.S. Citizens Seeking to Depart Russia.

U.S. Embassy personnel are generally not permitted to travel on Russian air carriers due to safety concerns.  The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) downgraded the air safety rating for Russia from Category 1 to Category 2 on April 21, 2022, due to Russia’s Federal Agency for Air Transport noncompliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) safety standards.  The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) prohibiting U.S. aviation operations into, out of, within, or over those areas of the Moscow Flight Information Region (FIR), the Samara FIR (UWWW) and the Rostov-na-Donu (URRV) FIR within 160NM of the boundaries of the Dnipro (UKDV) Flight Information Regions. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices .

The right of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression are not consistently protected in Russia. U.S. citizens should avoid all political or social protests and not photograph security personnel at these events. Russian authorities have arrested U.S. citizens who have participated in demonstrations and there are numerous reports Russian nationals have been detained for social media activity. 

Country Summary:

U.S. citizens, including former and current U.S. government and military personnel and private citizens engaged in business who are visiting or residing in Russia, have been interrogated without cause and threatened by Russian officials, and may become victims of harassment, mistreatment, and extortion. 

Russian security services may fail to notify the U.S. Embassy of the detention of a U.S. citizen and unreasonably delay U.S. consular assistance. Russian security services are increasing the arbitrary enforcement of local laws to target foreign and international organizations they consider “undesirable.”

Russian security services have arrested U.S. citizens on spurious charges, singled out U.S. citizens in Russia for detention and harassment, denied them fair and transparent treatment, and convicted them in secret trials or without presenting credible evidence. Furthermore, Russian authorities arbitrarily enforce local laws against U.S. citizen religious workers and have opened questionable criminal investigations against U.S. citizens engaged in religious activity. U.S. citizens should avoid travel to Russia to perform work for or volunteer with non-governmental organizations or religious organizations.

There have been multiple security incidents in southwestern Russia related to Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine. The Russian government declared martial law in Russia’s regions bordering Ukraine (Bryansk, Kursk, Belgorod, Voronezh, Rostov, Krasnodar) on October 20, 2022. The martial law regime allows the rapid introduction of restrictive measures such as curfew, seizure of private property, restriction of entry/exit and freedom of movement, internment of foreigners, forced relocation of local residents, and restrictions on public gatherings. U.S. citizens should avoid all travel to these areas.

Recent legislation has expanded the ability of Russian authorities to detain, question, and arrest individuals suspected of acting against Russia’s interests, including posts on personal social media accounts, engaging with foreign and international entities, discrediting the Russian state or military, as well as advocating for the rights of LGBTQI+ persons.

Terrorist groups, both transnational and local terrorist organizations, and individuals inspired by extremist ideology continue plotting possible attacks in Russia. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs and systems, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas. Travel to the North Caucasus (including Chechnya and Mt. Elbrus) is prohibited for U.S. government employees and strongly discouraged for U.S. citizens.

The international community, including the United States and Ukraine, does not recognize Russia’s purported annexation of Crimea as well as four other Ukrainian oblasts – Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhya – that Russia has purported to annex more recently. There is extensive Russian Federation military presence in these areas. Russia staged its further invasion of Ukraine, in part, from occupied Crimea, and Russia is likely to take further military actions in Crimea, and the four other Ukrainian oblasts are the subject of intensive fighting. There are continuing abuses against foreigners and the local population by the occupation authorities in these regions, particularly against those who are seen as challenging Russia’s authority.

The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv continues to provide consular services to U.S. citizens in Crimea as well as four other Ukrainian oblasts partially occupied by Russia – Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhya, although the ongoing conflict severely restricts the Embassy’s ability to provide services in these areas.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Russia.

If you decide to travel to Russia:

• Familiarize yourself with the information on  what the U.S. government can and cannot do to assist you in a crisis overseas .
• Have a contingency plan in place that does not rely on U.S. government assistance. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Monitor local and international media for breaking events and adjust your contingency plans based on the new information.
• Ensure travel documents are valid and easily accessible.
• Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Russia.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Travel Advisory Levels

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We continue to advise:

Do not travel to Russia due to the security situation and the impacts of the military conflict with Ukraine.

Russia (PDF 2.04 MB)

Europe (PDF 2.62 MB)

Local emergency contacts

All emergency services, fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

Do not travel to Russia. 

Do not travel to Russia due to the dangerous security situation and the impacts of the military conflict with Ukraine. 

Do not travel to North Caucasus.

Do not travel to North Caucasus due to the high threat of terrorism and political unrest.

See Safety .

• Following the terrorist attack at the Crocus City Hall in Krasnogorsk near Moscow on 23 March, there's tightened security in Moscow, including at airports, railway stations, subway and other public transport. Moscow's theatres and museums are closed and all mass gatherings cancelled. Avoid the affected areas, monitor media and follow the advice of local authorities. 
• Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Russia. Terrorist groups, including al-Qaeda and Daesh-aligned groups, continue to call for attacks in Russia. Attacks can be indiscriminate and may occur on or around seasonal, festive, or religious events in public places and could include popular tourist sites. Russia has seen several terrorist attacks, with many casualties, including in Moscow and St Petersburg. Russia's aviation has also been targeted. Attacks are likely in the North Caucasus region and the Georgia-Russia border area. Attacks may occur with little or no warning. Always be alert to possible threats and have a clear exit plan.
• Security incidents, such as drone attacks and explosions, often occur in southern and western areas of Russia, including regions bordering Ukraine, Moscow, and St Petersburg. This can cause significant flight delays and travel disruption. You shouldn't attempt to travel to the Russia-Ukraine border or cross into Ukraine from Russia.
• The security situation could deteriorate further with little warning. If you're in Russia, leave immediately using the limited commercial options available or private means if it's safe to do so. Departure routes from Russia may become disrupted at short notice, so have an alternate exit plan. 
• If you decide to stay in Russia, review your personal security plans. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family. Our ability to provide consular assistance in Russia is limited. The Australian Government will not be able to evacuate you from Russia.
• There are limited transportation options, restrictions on financial transactions and possible shortages of essential products and services. 
• The Russian Government has introduced a 'medium response level' in several regions of Russia, including Krasnodar, Belgorod, Bryansk, Voronezh, Kursk, and Rostov and a 'heightened preparedness level' in the remainder of the Central and Southern Federal districts. A basic readiness level covers the rest of Russia. There may be an increase in security personnel and installations. Security measures or restrictions may be introduced with little to no notice. Monitor the media for developments. 
• Russian authorities have made strong, negative comments in relation to Western countries. Local authorities may adopt a more negative attitude towards foreigners in Russia in reaction to perceived support for Ukraine and sanctions on Russia. Non-participating bystanders can draw scrutiny from security forces and have been detained. Remain vigilant, avoid protests or demonstrations and avoid commenting publicly on political developments.
• Continue to follow the advice on Smartraveller. If you have significant concerns for your welfare or that of another Australian, contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Laws about the import and use of medicines are strict. You need a doctor's letter and a notarised translation confirming your need for each medication that contains restricted substances. Contact the  Embassy of Russia  for details.
• Rabies and tick-borne encephalitis are on the rise. Ticks are common from April to October. Take care when travelling through forests.
• Infectious diseases such as typhoid, hepatitis, diphtheria, measles and tuberculosis are a risk. Boil drinking water or drink bottled water.
• Public medical facilities in Russian cities are below Australian standards and basic in rural areas.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Russia may subject males it regards as Russian to mobilisation, regardless of any other citizenship held. Laws introducing heavy penalties for 'crimes against military service' have been passed. The Australian Government won't be able to intervene if you're subjected to mobilisation.
• Conscription occurs regularly in Russia. The Government may subject males it regards as Russian to mandatory conscription, regardless of any other citizenship held. From 1 January 2024, the maximum age of conscription will change from 27 to 30 years old. Russian authorities have also passed laws allowing for the draft notice to be serviced to the conscripts online, preventing conscripts from leaving the country once the notice is registered and sent.
• Russia has passed laws that severely inhibit free speech related to the current situation, imposing severe restrictions on the publishing and distribution of information related to the Russian armed forces and any military operations. Foreign journalists and other media workers in Russia may face considerable risks, including arrest and imprisonment. Don't share or publish information related to the current events in Ukraine and Russia.
• Russian authorities may enforce local laws in an arbitrary manner. You may be interrogated without cause by Russian officials and may become a victim of harassment, mistreatment, and extortion.
• Don't use or carry any illegal drugs. Penalties are severe. Carry your passport, visa and migration card at all times. Authorities won't accept copies.
• Don't take photos of military places or sensitive areas, such as passport control. It's also illegal to use commercial film, television, camera equipment or drones in public without permission. Hand-held video cameras are legal.
• Russia doesn't recognise dual nationals. We can only provide limited consular assistance to dual nationals who are arrested or detained. You'll need a valid Russian passport to leave.
• Same-sex relationships are technically legal but are not widely accepted. Violence against members of the LGBTI community occurs. Russia's parliament passed a law banning "LGBT propaganda", criminalising any act regarded as an attempt to promote what Russia calls "non-traditional sexual relations". The promotion of LGBTI issues may be considered illegal by local authorities, and activists may face consequences under Russian law. In July 2023, the Russian President signed a decree banning gender changes without medical requirements. The law also annuls marriages in which one person "changed gender" and prevents transgender couples from adopting children.
• Law enforcement agencies in Russia cooperate closely with agencies in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries. If you commit an offence in one of these countries, you may be detained in another (including at the border) and extradited for prosecution.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• If you're in Russia, leave immediately using the limited commercial options available or private means if it's safe to do so. The security situation could deteriorate further with little warning. If you decide to stay in Russia, review your personal security plans. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family. Have an alternate exit plan.
• Confirm with your transport operator that services are still operating if you plan to depart Russia. Commercial travel routes between Russia and Europe are often disrupted due to measures taken in response to military action in Ukraine. Several Russian airports are now closed to the public, disrupting internal flights to and from Moscow and other cities. The train and bus service between St Petersburg and Helsinki is suspended. 
• If you're travelling through an overland border crossing into  Estonia  or  Latvia , confirm the entry requirements for your destination before arrival. Finland has closed border crossings with Russia indefinitely and maritime borders will close on 15 April. Latvia introduced an entry ban on vehicles registered in Russia in September 2023. There's a ban on vehicles crossing into/from Estonia at the Ivangorod- Narva crossing. Train service is also suspended. Entry and exit on foot will still be allowed. Additional restrictions or entry requirements could be imposed or changed suddenly. Be aware that some borders may close without notice. Australia and other countries have placed sanctions on Russia. Russia's response to these sanctions may disrupt travel and affect travellers.
• Russian airlines and railways may be affected by shortages of parts and essential technical components for their fleets, affecting maintenance and safety standards. Research your railway and aviation provider before choosing their services. The International Civil Aviation Organisation has issued a Significant Safety Concern (or 'red flag') notice regarding the capacity of Russian airlines to oversee safety. 
• If, despite our advice, you decide to enter Russia, expect thorough security checks at the border, including questioning and inspections of electronic devices. Entry requirements can change at short notice. Contact your airline or the nearest embassy or consulate of Russia to confirm entry requirements.
• Bank cards issued outside of Russia don't work in Russia. You won't be able to access funds from these cards once you enter Russia. You may not be able to exchange Australian dollars as well as old, worn, or damaged US dollar and euro banknotes into Russian rubles in Russia. Ensure you have enough money to cover your stay.
• Dual nationals can't leave Russia without a valid Russian passport. If your Russian passport expires while you're in Russia or if you enter Russia using a repatriation certificate, you'll need to get a new Russian passport before you leave. This can take up to 3 months. The Australian Government won't be able to intervene or fast-track this process.  

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy  in Moscow. Our ability to provide consular assistance in Russia is limited due to the evolving security situation. The Australian Government will not be able to evacuate you from Russia.
• The Australian Consulate in St Petersburg can provide limited help.
• If you have significant concerns for your welfare or that of another Australian, contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Russia. Terrorist groups, including al-Qaeda and Daesh-aligned groups, continue to call for attacks in Russia. Attacks can be indiscriminate and may occur on or   around seasonal, festive, or religious events in public places and could include popular tourist sites. Russia has seen a number of terrorist attacks which have caused large casualty numbers, including in Moscow and St Petersburg, and Russia's aviation has also been targeted. Attacks may occur with little or no warning. 

Russian authorities continue to announce arrests and the disruption of planned attacks.

Terrorists have attacked other European cities. Targets have included:

• places of worship
• government buildings
• shopping areas
• tourist sites
• restaurants
• entertainment venues
• transportation hubs
• major events which attract large crowds

To protect yourself from terrorism:

• be alert to possible threats, especially in public places
• be extra cautious around possible terrorist targets
• always have a clear exit plan
• report anything suspicious to the police
• monitor the media for any new threats
• take official warnings seriously and follow the instructions of local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

North Caucasus

There's a high threat of terrorism in parts of the North Caucasus, including:

• North Ossetia
• the south-eastern part of Stavropol bordering Chechnya
• Karbardino-Balkaria
• Karachay-Cherkessia

Terrorist attacks continue to occur in Chechnya. Several people have been killed and injured.

Our ability to provide consular assistance to Australians  in those parts of the North Caucasus  is limited.

If, despite our advice, you travel to these parts of the North Caucasus:

• monitor local conditions via media and travel operators
• arrange personal security measures

Georgia-Russia border

The Georgia-Russia border area is volatile because of tensions in Georgia.

If, despite our advice, you travel in the border region, read our  Georgia travel advice .

Security situation

Security incidents, such as drone attacks and explosions, often occur in southern and western areas of Russia, including regions bordering Ukraine, Moscow, and St Petersburg. This can cause significant flight delays and flight cancellations. You shouldn't attempt to travel to the Russia-Ukraine border or cross into Ukraine from Russia.

The security situation could deteriorate further with little warning. If you're in Russia, leave immediately using the limited commercial options available or private means if it's safe to do so. Departure routes from Russia may become disrupted at short notice. If you decide to stay in Russia, review your personal security plans. You're responsible for your own safety and that of your family.

The Russian Government has introduced a 'medium response level' in several regions of Russia, including Krasnodar, Belgorod, Bryansk, Voronezh, Kursk, and Rostov and a 'heightened preparedness level' in the remainder of the Central and Southern Federal districts. A basic readiness level has been introduced in the rest of Russia. There may be an increase in security personnel and installations. Security measures or restrictions may be introduced with little to no notice. Monitor the media for developments.

Ukraine border areas and Crimea

The Russia-Ukraine border is volatile due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Security incidents regularly occur in Belgorod, Bryansk, Kursk and other regions of Russia bordering Ukraine, including explosions and large fires. The security situation in the region could deteriorate at short notice. You shouldn't travel to the Russia-Ukraine border or cross into Ukraine from Russia.

We currently advise you do not travel to Ukraine due to the volatile security environment and military conflict. Read the  Ukraine travel advice   for more information.

The Australian Government doesn't recognise Russia's claimed annexation of the Ukrainian region of Crimea or its other territorial claims in occupied Ukraine.

Leaving Russia

Where it's safe to do so, you should leave Russia immediately. Use your judgment to decide the best time and safest means of exit. 

Transport routes may be disrupted. Plan for delays at land border crossings. Expect disruption to travel and changes at short notice. Make sure you have an adequate supply of food, water, medication and fuel. Make sure you have payment options that will work during your journey and at your destination. 

Read your destination's travel advice to ensure you meet the entry requirements. These may differ when entering by road, rail or air. Be aware that some borders may close without notice. Commercial travel routes between Russia and Europe have been impacted by measures taken in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Check with your airline or travel agent for current flight availability. Any travel options you pursue are at your own risk. See ' Travel '

For more information on entry requirements for countries bordering Russia, read the travel advice:

The European Union also has a website with  information on travel restrictions for people seeking to enter member states .

If you decide to stay in Russia:

• follow the instructions of authorities
• ensure your travel documents are up-to-date, and keep your passport and other travel documentation safe
• contact your family and friends in Australia so they're aware of your location and situation
• keep up to date with developments on the security situation, monitor reputable media, and regularly check our travel advice and  social media
• review your personal security plans and make contingency plans to leave as soon as you judge it safe to do so
• always be alert and aware of your surroundings
• avoid large gatherings and areas with groups of fighters and military equipment.

Civil unrest and political tension

Russia's parliament has passed laws that severely restrict free speech related to the current situation. Foreign journalists and other media workers in Russia may face considerable risks, including arrest and imprisonment.

While the effects of this law are still unclear, you may be detained or fined for:

• sharing or publishing information that local authorities deem false
• sharing or publishing information that may be detrimental to the armed forces
• calling for, sharing or publishing speech in support of sanctions against Russia

You should not:

• share or publish information related to the current events in Ukraine and Russia
• participate in demonstrations and large gatherings

Russian authorities may adopt a more negative attitude towards foreigners in Russia due to perceived support for Ukraine and sanctions on Russia. Russian authorities may enforce local laws in an arbitrary manner. You may be interrogated without cause by Russian officials and may become a victim of harassment, mistreatment, and extortion.

Avoid commenting publicly on political developments.

Anti-war and anti-mobilisation protests have taken place in cities across Russia over the invasion of Ukraine. Many protesters have been arrested.

Unsanctioned protests are illegal, and you can be arrested if you participate. Remain vigilant and avoid rallies, protests, demonstrations and other large public gatherings, as they can turn violent, and you may be arrested.

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Theft and assault

Petty crime, pickpocketing and mugging is common. Groups of children sometimes commit crimes, too.

Hot spots for crime include:

• the Izmailovsky Market
• other tourist attractions
• the Moscow and St Petersburg metros

Thieves often steal passports. They target travellers in  robberies  and  assaults , particularly in large cities.

To protect yourself from theft and assault:

• keep your personal belongings close, particularly in tourist areas
• be aware of your security in public places, particularly at night
• monitor local media on crime
• racially or religiously motivated assaults may occur throughout Russia.

Drink spiking

Criminals may drug and rob travellers at nightclubs and bars. Sometimes this happens after people accept offers of food, drink or transportation from strangers.

To protect yourself from spiking-related crime:

• never accept food or drinks from strangers
• don't leave drinks unattended
• leave your drink if you're not sure it's safe
• stick with people you trust in bars, nightclubs and taxis
• don't accept offers of transport from strangers
• Partying safely

Using taxis

People have reported extortion and robbery while taking unauthorised taxis.

To protect yourself from robbery while travelling in taxis:

• only use official taxi companies
• always book your taxi in advance
• don't flag down taxis on the street
• don't share taxis with strangers
• always negotiate and confirm the fare before you get in a taxi

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud is common.

To protect yourself from fraud:

• only exchange currency at banks
• keep your credit card in sight during transactions
• only use ATMs inside banks and during business hours
• always hide your PIN

Other scams

Criminals may try to cheat you by changing money in the street or a bank queue.

Some Australians have been victims of fraud by bogus internet friendship, dating and marriage schemes operating from Russia.

These are large-scale, well-organised  scams .

Criminals arrange to meet people through internet dating schemes or chat rooms. After getting to know each other, the criminal asks the Australian to send money so they can travel to Australia. However, the relationship ends after the money has been received, and the funds can't be recovered.

Be wary of people you meet through internet dating schemes or chat rooms.

People have also reported harassment, mistreatment and extortion by police and other local officials.

If you suspect you're being extorted by a police officer or other local official, offer to walk with them to the nearest police station. Once there, you can check their identity and their demands.

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:   

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Kidnapping  is common in parts of the Northern Caucasus.

It can be for:

• political purposes
• retribution

Foreigners have been targeted in the past.

If, despite the risks, you travel to an area where there is a particular threat of kidnapping:

• get professional security advice

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

Climate and natural disasters

Severe weather  during winter can disrupt travel in Russia.

To protect yourself from accidents caused by severe weather:

• take care when walking in snowy, icy or windy conditions
• take care when driving
• use appropriate driving equipment, such as winter tyres or chains
• monitor the media and other sources for updates

If you're delayed, contact local authorities about a visa extension if required.

Snow and ice

People are injured or killed yearly in wind, snow and ice-related accidents. These include:

• traffic accidents
• collapsed roofs and snow falling from roofs 
• falling debris 
• prolonged exposure to extreme cold

Slipping on ice can result in serious injuries, such as broken bones, back injuries or paralysis.

During summer, forest and peat  fires  can occur in Russia, including in the Moscow region.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

The North Caucasus and the far eastern region of Russia can experience  earthquakes .

Tsunamis  are common in all oceanic regions of the world.

To protect yourself from natural disasters, take official warnings seriously.

If a  natural disaster  occurs, follow the advice of local authorities.

Get updates on major disasters from the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System .

Travel insurance

Most Australian travel insurance policies won't cover you for travel to Russia. Do not travel to Russia. See ' Safety '

If you're not insured, you may have to pay thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Physical and mental health

Do not travel to Russia. If, despite our advice, you travel to Russia, consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least eight weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice  (World Health Organization)
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor. 

Russia has imposed temporary restrictions on exporting certain categories of goods, including foreign-made medical products. 

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Russia. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Russia has strict laws about the import and use of medications. This includes medications that are available over the counter in Australia, such as cold and flu tablets.

When you arrive in Russia, you must present a doctor's letter to authorities confirming your need for each medication. This is the case if your medications contain the following:

• barbiturate
• sibutramine
• anabolic steroids
• androgens and other sex hormones
• analgesic, such as tramadol
• psychostimulants
• other restricted substances

The letter must:

• contain a description of the medication, including the chemical composition
• describe the required dosage
• explain the underlying medical condition
• confirm the medicine is for personal use only
• be signed by your treating doctor

You must also have a notarised translation of the letter into Russian.

Before you leave Australia, contact the Embassy of Russia for the latest rules for bringing medicines into Russia.

• Russian Government website

Health risks

Tick-borne diseases.

Tick-borne encephalitis  (World Health Organization) and other tick-borne diseases are a risk, especially if you travel through forested areas.

Ticks are common in rural areas from spring to autumn: April to October.

People have reported increased incidents of tick-borne encephalitis.

Measles cases can routinely occur in Russia, with the country currently experiencing increased measles activity. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel.

• Measles immunisation service  (Department of Health and Aged Care)

Bird flu (avian influenza)

Avian influenza  is a risk in Russia.

HIV/AIDS  is a risk.

Take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus.

There has been a reported increase in  rabies  across Russia.

Rabies is deadly. Humans can get rabies from mammals, such as:

• other animals

If you're bitten or scratched by a dog, monkey or other animal, get treatment as soon as possible.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other  infectious diseases  are common, including these listed by the World Health Organization:

• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads
• avoid unpasteurised dairy products

Get urgent medical attention if you have a fever or diarrhoea or suspect food poisoning.

Medical facilities

Public medical facilities in Russian cities are below Australian standards.

Standards are extremely basic in rural areas.

There are a few international-standard private facilities in major cities – these clinics can be very expensive to access.

Before you're treated, private facilities need either:

• up-front payment
• evidence of adequate insurance
• a written guarantee of payment

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated to get proper care. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

In July, the Russian President signed a decree banning gender changes, including gender transition surgery, hormone therapy and changing gender on official documents without medical requirements. The law also annuls marriages in which one person "changed gender" and prevents transgender couples from adopting children.

In November 2022, Russia's parliament passed a law banning "LGBT propaganda", criminalising any act regarded as an attempt to promote what Russia calls "non-traditional sexual relations". Sharing information or public display of any material promoting "non-traditional relationships" is now a serious criminal offence.

In November 2022, Russia announced that the partial mobilisation of military reservists for the conflict in Ukraine was complete. However, a decree formalising the completion has not been issued. The Russian Government may subject males it regards as Russian to mobilisation, regardless of any other citizenship held. Laws introducing heavy penalties for 'crimes against military service' have been passed. The Australian Government will not be able to intervene if you are subjected to mobilisation.

The US Government issued travel advice in March 2022 advising that Russian security services have arrested US citizens on spurious charges, singled out US citizens in Russia for detention and/or harassment, denied them fair and transparent treatment, and have convicted them in secret trials and/or without presenting credible evidence. The US Government warns that Russian officials may unreasonably delay consular assistance to detained US citizens.

Russian authorities have introduced criminal liability for publishing and distributing 'deliberately misleading' information about the Russian armed forces and any military operations. These laws have been interpreted and applied very broadly to many forms of dissent.

Law enforcement agencies in Russia cooperate closely with agencies in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries. If you commit an offence in one of these countries, you may be detained in another (including at the border) and extradited for prosecution. 

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Russian authorities imposed restrictions on real estate and foreign currency transactions for foreign residents. These restrictions can be revised at short notice. Seek advice from local authorities.

Possessing, selling, consuming, or carrying any illegal drugs is illegal.

Penalties are severe and include long prison terms.

Russia has strict rules around medication carried into the country for personal use, including some medications that you can get over the counter in Australia.

If you don't declare restricted medications, authorities could detain you. See  Health .

• Carrying or using drugs

Routine police checks are common in public places.

Carry your passport, visa and migration card with you at all times. Authorities won't accept copies.

If you can't provide travel documentation on request, authorities can detain and fine you.

In Russia, it's illegal to:

• take photos of military places, strategic sites and other sensitive areas, such as passport control and guarded railway sites
• use commercial film, television or camera equipment in public areas without permission, but hand-held home video cameras are allowed
• use drones without permission from the Russian aviation authority.

Penalties for breaching the law include fines, jail and deportation.

Russia regulates religious activity. Authorities restrict activities such as preaching and distributing religious materials.

If you plan to engage in religious activity, ensure you're not breaking local laws.

Contact the Embassy or Consulate of Russia for more information.

Cybersecurity laws

Russia has blocked or restricted some social media platforms and websites, including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter.

Russia has banned certain Virtual Private Networks (VPN) and has indicated it will implement a nationwide ban on VPNs in March 2025.

• Cyber security when travelling overseas
• Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology and Mass Media (Roskomnadzor)

Official documents

Some Australian documents, such as birth or marriage certificates, need to be  legalised  before Russian authorities will accept them.

If you have an Australian document that you need to use while in Russia, contact the Embassy or Consulate of Russia for information.

Apostilles  and some legal certificates can be issued by:

• DFAT  in Australia
• Australian embassies and high commissions  overseas

Surrogacy laws

Russia has laws governing child surrogacy and has passed legislation banning surrogacy for all foreigners except those married to Russian citizens. Recent court cases have resulted in long custodial sentences for some providers of surrogacy services. All children born through surrogacy in Russia are granted Russian citizenship, regardless of their parent's citizenship.

Get independent legal advice before making surrogacy arrangements in Russia or with residents of Russia.

• Going overseas for international surrogacy
• Going overseas to adopt a child

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual nationality

Russia doesn't recognise dual nationality.

In November 2022, Russia announced that the partial mobilisation of military reservists for the conflict in Ukraine was complete. However, a decree formalising the completion hasn't been issued. Russia may subject males it regards as Russian to mobilisation, regardless of any other citizenship held. Laws introducing heavy penalties for 'crimes against military service' have been passed. The Australian Government won't be able to intervene if you are subjected to mobilisation.

Conscription occurs regularly, and Russia may subject males it regards as Russian to mandatory conscription, regardless of any other citizenship held. Conscription in Russia occurs semi-annually, and conscripts typically serve one year. From 1 January 2024, the maximum conscription age will change from 27 to 30 years old. Russian authorities have also passed laws allowing for the draft notice to be serviced to the conscripts online and preventing conscripts from leaving the country once the notice is registered and sent.

Russian authorities won't recognise your Australian nationality if you're a dual national. They will treat you like any other national of Russia.

If you're a dual national:

• you must enter and leave Russia on a Russian passport
• you can enter Russia using a repatriation certificate (svidetelstvo na vozvrashcheniye) if you don't have a Russian passport, but you must still leave Russia on a Russian passport
• you must declare any other nationalities or foreign residency permits to the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs
• you could be conscripted into the Russian military if you're a male between the ages of 18 and 30 

If you're a dual national, this limits the  consular services  we can give if you're arrested or detained.

Contact the  Embassy or Consulate of Russia  well before any planned travel to Russia.

Dual nationals can't leave Russia without a valid Russian passport.

You'll need to get a new Russian passport before you leave if:

• your Russian passport expires while you're in Russia
• you enter Russia using a repatriation certificate

Getting a new Russian passport for non-residents is complex and can take up to 3 months. The Australian Government is unable to intervene or fast-track this process.

Children born outside Russia and added to their parents' Russian passports need their own passport to leave Russia.

If you're travelling alone with a child, Russian border authorities may require the following:

• documentary evidence of your relationship to the child
• written permission for the child to travel from the non-travelling parent
• Dual nationals

Local customs

Same-sex relationships are legal in Russia but not widely accepted.

Intolerance towards the LGBTI community is common, particularly outside Moscow and St Petersburg.

People have reported violence against members of the LGBTI community, including by local security forces.

In April 2017, there were reports of arrests and violence against LGBTI people in Chechnya.

In November 2022, Russia passed a law banning "LGBT propaganda", criminalising any act regarded as an attempt to promote what Russia calls "non-traditional sexual relations". Sharing or displaying material promoting "non-traditional relationships" is now a serious criminal offence. The bill broadens the existing law banning the promotion of 'non-traditional sexual relationships' to minors.

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Australia and other countries have placed sanctions on Russia. Russia's response to these sanctions may disrupt travel and affect travellers.

You need a visa to enter Russia unless you're travelling on certain commercial cruise ships.

You can't get a visa on arrival.

If you arrive in Russia without a valid visa, authorities will fine, detain and deport you at your own expense. They may bar you from re-entering.

Make sure you apply for the correct visa type, such as 'tourist' and 'visitor' visas.

If your visa type doesn't match the purpose of your visit, authorities may:

• not let you enter 

You may need to provide biometric fingerprints for the visa application process.

After you get your Russian visa, check your passport details are correct, including the following:

• passport number
• date of birth
• intention of stay
• validity dates

If there are errors, return your passport to the  Russian Embassy or Consulate  for correction.

It's impossible to amend visa details once you're in Russia.

Australians sanctioned by Russia

The Russian Foreign Ministry issued statements on its website advising that, in response to Australian sanctions, the Russian Government had added several Australians to a 'stop list', denying them entry into Russia on an indefinite basis.  

These statements can be viewed here (copy and paste the URL into a new browser if you can't open the link):

• 21 June 2023 statement -   https://mid.ru/en/foreign_policy/news/1890258/
• 16 September 2022 statement  -  https://mid.ru/ru/foreign_policy/news/1830085/  (in Russian)
• 21 July 2022 statement  -  https://www.mid.ru/en/foreign_policy/news/1823204/
• 16 June 2022 statement  -  https://www.mid.ru/en/foreign_policy/news/1818118/
• 7 April 2022 statement  -  https://www.mid.ru/en/foreign_policy/news/1808465/

DFAT can't provide advice on the implications of another country's sanctions. If you're listed, you should obtain legal advice if you have concerns about the potential impacts of the Russian sanctions. Do not travel to Russia if you're on Russia's 'stop list'. 

Discuss your travel plans with your cruise operator before you travel to check if you need a visa.

Check transit visa requirements if you transit through Russia to a third country.

• Russian Embassy
• Going on a cruise

Border measures

If, despite our advice, you decide to enter Russia, expect thorough security checks at the border, including questioning and inspections of electronic devices.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Other formalities

Migration card.

All foreign visitors receive a migration card on arrival in Russia.

If you receive a paper migration card, keep the stamped exit portion of the card with your passport.

The migration card covers both Russia and Belarus. You must show the stamped card to passport control when leaving either country.

If you lose your migration card:

• your departure could be delayed
• you could be stopped from staying at a hotel in Russia

You can get a replacement from the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs, which is complex and could delay your departure.

Biometric fingerprinting

Foreign citizens entering Russia for work or intending to stay over 90 calendar days may be subject to biometric fingerprinting and regular medical check-ups. The procedure of biometric fingerprinting will need to be done only once. Medical check-ups will need to be re-taken upon the certificate's expiry (valid for 1 year).

Travel with children

If you're  travelling with a child , you may need to show evidence of parental, custodial or permission rights. This is particularly the case for dual nationals. See  Local laws

• Advice for people travelling with children

Electronics

The government strictly controls the import of electrical and some high-technology equipment.

The rules are complex.

You may import terminal global positioning systems (GPS) devices if you declare them on arrival. However, you'll need a special permit to import a GPS device connected to a computer or an antenna.

Authorities can detain you if you don't have a permit.

You must show proof of advanced approval to import a satellite phone. Request approval from the  Federal Service for the Supervision of Communications .

Russian border officials can demand to inspect any electronic device, including installed software when you leave.

Travel between Russia and Belarus

Do not travel to Russia and Belarus due to the security environment and impacts of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. If you’re in Russia or Belarus, leave immediately using the limited commercial options available or private means if it's safe to do so.

If, despite our advice, you decide to enter Belarus from Russia, note that the government doesn't allow foreigners to cross the land border between Russia and Belarus.

If you travel between Russia and Belarus, it must be by air.

If you're travelling between Russia and Belarus, you must have visas for both countries.

Visa-free entry into Belarus doesn't apply to travellers arriving from or travelling to Russia.

Contact the  Embassy of Russia  and the  Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus  for details.

Registering your stay in Russia

If you stay more than 7 working days, including your arrival and departure day, you must register with the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs.

You have to pay a registration fee.

Most hotels do this for their guests, but you're legally responsible. Confirm with check-in staff on arrival that they've registered you.

The registration process can be complex if you're not staying at a hotel.

Register at the nearest post office if you're travelling on a visitor visa.

Register through your employer if you're travelling on a visa that lets you work. Confirm with your employer that they've registered you.

If you don't register, authorities can fine you or delay your departure.

• The Russian Embassy

Visa overstays

Make sure you leave Russia before your visa expires. Some visas, including tourist visas, can't be extended.

If you overstay your visa, you won't be allowed to leave Russia until the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs determines your legal status or deports you.

Authorities can detain you until they've processed your case.

Penalties for overstaying include fines and deportation.

You may be banned from re-entering.

Exporting goods

Russia has imposed temporary restrictions on exporting certain categories of goods, including foreign-made medical products. Seek advice from local authorities.

Russia has strict regulations on the export of antiques, artworks and items of historical significance. This is for items purchased in Russia or imported to Russia from overseas. It includes modern art and posters if they are particularly rare or valuable.

Authorities may not allow the export of items more than 100 years old.

If you want to export any antiques, artworks or items of historical significance:

• keep receipts of your purchases
• obtain an export permit from the Ministry of Culture in advance of travel — export permits aren't issued at the airport
• declare each item to border authorities when you leave Russia
• be ready to show each item to border authorities
• be ready to show receipts for each item to border authorities

Don't try to export items requiring permits without the relevant paperwork. This is a serious offence.

Legislation about the export of artwork and antiques from Russia may change without warning.

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for six months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than six months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

If your passport is lost or stolen while ashore, you will need to obtain an emergency passport and an exit visa to leave Russia within the 72-hour visa-free period. If it’s not done within 72 hours, you will face a court hearing and possible fine, deportation and entry ban.

To arrange a new visa:

• obtain an official police report
• apply for a replacement passport through the  Australian Embassy in Moscow
• apply to Russian authorities for an exit visa
• include the police report with your application

If you replace your passport while in Russia, make sure authorities transfer your visa to the new passport.

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

More information:  

•       LGBTI travellers  

The currency of Russia is the Rouble (RUB).

Russian authorities have imposed temporary restrictions on the export of foreign currency in cash out of Russia. Travellers exiting Russia can't take more than the equivalent of $US10,000 in cash.

Make sure a customs official stamps your declaration. Only stamped declarations are valid.

You must carry proof that your funds were imported and declared or legally obtained in Russia.

Due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Mastercard, Visa, and American Express have suspended operations in Russia. Cards issued outside of Russia will not work at Russian merchants or ATMs. Cards issued inside Russia may continue to work, but they won't work outside Russia. It may not be possible for you to access your funds through Russian banks or to make payments to Russian businesses with non-Russian credit/debit cards. Be prepared with alternate means of payment should your cards be declined.

You may not be able to exchange Australian dollars as well as old, worn or damaged US dollar and euro banknotes into Russian rubles in Russia. Ensure you have enough money to cover your stay in Russia. 

Traveller's cheques aren't widely accepted, even in Moscow and St Petersburg.

Local travel

Postal services between Russia and Australia are temporarily suspended. 

More information 

• Australia Post website

Confirm with your transport operator that services are still operating if you plan to depart Russia. Commercial travel routes between Russia and Europe are disrupted. Expect thorough security checks at the border, including questioning and inspections of electronic devices.

Flights between Russia and Europe have been affected by measures taken in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Several Russian airports are now closed to the public, disrupting internal flights to and from Moscow and other cities. The train and bus service between St Petersburg and Helsinki is suspended.

Finland  has closed border crossings with Russia indefinitely and maritime borders will close on 15 April. 

Latvia introduced an entry ban on vehicles registered in Russia in September 2023. More information can be found on the  State Revenue Service website . There's a ban on vehicles crossing into/from Estonia at the Ivangorod-Narva crossing. Train service is also suspended. Entry and exit on foot will still be allowed. Additional restrictions or entry requirements could be imposed or changed suddenly. Be aware that some borders may close without notice. 

If you're travelling through an overland border crossing into  Estonia  or  Latvia , confirm the entry requirements for your destination before arrival.

Australia and other countries have placed sanctions on Russia. Russia's response to these sanctions may disrupt travel and affect travellers. Confirm entry requirements for your  destination  before arrival, as additional restrictions or entry requirements could be imposed or changed suddenly.

If, despite our advice, you decide to go to Chechnya or the North Caucasus, you must first get permission from the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Several other areas of Russia, especially in Siberia and the Russian Far East, are also 'closed' areas.

Foreigners need government permission to enter 'closed' areas.

If you need government permission or are unsure if you need it, contact the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Driving permit

You should carry an International Driving Permit (IDP).

You may drive with an Australian driver's license if you carry it with a notarised Russian translation.

Road travel

Driving in Russia can be hazardous due to:

• poor driving standards
• ice and snow in winter
• poor road conditions in rural areas

The blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0%.

• Driving or riding
• the Russian Embassy

Some taxis appear official but aren't licensed by local authorities.

People have reported extortion and  robbery  while taking unauthorised taxis. See  Safety

Book an official taxi by phone, at major hotels and from inside airports.

Flights from Russia to other countries are limited. These may change or be suspended at short notice. You should contact airlines or travel agents directly for the most current information.

The  EU announced  that 21 Russian-owned airlines were banned from flying in EU airspace due to safety concerns.

Russian airlines and railways may be affected by shortages of parts and essential technical components for their fleets, affecting maintenance and safety standards. If you're flying domestically or internationally, research your aviation provider before choosing their services.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Russia's air safety profile with the  Aviation Safety Network

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in Moscow.  Our ability to provide consular assistance in Russia is limited. The Australian Government will not be able to evacuate you from Russia.

Australian Embassy, Moscow

13 Kropotkinsky Pereulok Moscow 119034 Russia Phone: (+7 495) 956-6070  Fax: (+7 495) 956-6170  Website:  russia.embassy.gov.au Twitter:  @PosolAustralia

If you're in St Petersburg, you can also contact the Australian Consulate for limited consular help.

Australian Consulate, St Petersburg

Moika 11 St Petersburg 191186 Russia Tel: (+7 964) 333 7572 (NOT for visas) Email:  [email protected]  (NOT for visas)

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

Australians in need of consular assistance should contact the Australian Government 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Russia?

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Is St. Petersburg, Florida Safe?

With its beautiful beaches, vibrant arts scene, and laidback vibe, St. Petersburg is an alluring destination for travelers and prospective residents alike. However, before packing your bags, you may be wondering: is St. Petersburg, Florida actually safe?

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Overall, St . Petersburg is quite safe, especially compared to other major U.S. cities. That said, there are certain areas and types of crime you’ll want to be aware of if visiting or moving to St. Pete.

Crime Rates

When considering the safety of any city, it’s crucial to examine its crime rates. St. Petersburg, Florida is no exception. By analyzing crime statistics, we can get a clearer picture of the safety situation in this vibrant city.

Overview of St. Petersburg Crime Stats

St. Petersburg, like any other major city, has its share of crime. However, it’s important to note that the city has made significant progress in reducing crime rates over the past few years. According to the latest available data, the overall crime rate in St. Petersburg has decreased by X% since last year, which is a testament to the city’s efforts in maintaining a safe environment for its residents and visitors.

It’s worth mentioning that while crime rates have decreased, it is still essential for residents and visitors alike to take necessary precautions and remain vigilant, as crime can happen anywhere.

Violent vs Property Crime in St. Pete

When examining crime rates, it’s important to distinguish between violent crime and property crime. Violent crimes, such as assault and robbery, are considered more serious offenses, while property crimes, including burglary and theft, involve the unlawful taking of someone’s property.

In St. Petersburg, property crime rates tend to be higher than violent crime rates. This means that residents should take precautions to secure their homes and belongings. Simple measures like installing security systems and locking doors and windows can go a long way in deterring potential criminals and protecting your property.

Comparing St. Petersburg Crime to Other Cities

When evaluating the safety of a city, it’s helpful to compare its crime rates to those of other cities in the region or across the country. In this regard, St. Petersburg fares relatively well. While it may have higher crime rates than some smaller towns, it is generally on par with other cities of similar size and population.

For a more accurate understanding of St. Petersburg’s crime rates, it’s advisable to consult official sources such as the St. Petersburg Police Department or the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program .

These sources provide detailed and up-to-date information on crime rates in the city, allowing residents and potential visitors to make informed decisions regarding their safety.

Safest Areas

When it comes to safety in St. Petersburg, Florida, there are several neighborhoods that are known for their low crime rates and overall safety. These areas provide residents with a sense of security and peace of mind.

Neighborhoods with Lowest Crime

One of the safest neighborhoods in St. Petersburg is Old Northeast. This historic district is known for its charming homes and tree-lined streets. The neighborhood has a strong sense of community, with neighbors looking out for one another.

The crime rate in Old Northeast is significantly lower than the city average, making it an ideal place to live for those who prioritize safety.

Another safe neighborhood in St. Petersburg is Snell Isle. This upscale community is located on a small island and is known for its beautiful waterfront properties. Snell Isle has a low crime rate and offers residents a tranquil and secure environment.

Historic Kenwood is another neighborhood worth mentioning. This diverse and vibrant area has seen a revitalization in recent years and has become a popular place to live. The neighborhood is known for its art galleries, charming bungalows, and community events.

Historic Kenwood has a lower crime rate compared to other parts of the city.

Areas to Avoid in St. Petersburg

While St. Petersburg is generally a safe city, there are a few areas that have higher crime rates and may be best to avoid, especially at night. One such area is the Southside neighborhood, which has a higher crime rate compared to other parts of the city.

It is important to remain cautious and aware of your surroundings if you find yourself in this area.

Another area to be cautious of is the downtown core, particularly at night. While the downtown area is generally safe during the day, it is advisable to take precautions when walking alone at night, like sticking to well-lit areas and avoiding secluded streets.

It is always a good idea to research the specific neighborhood you are interested in before making any decisions. Local law enforcement agencies and websites like NeighborhoodScout can provide valuable information about crime rates and safety in different areas of St. Petersburg.

Staying Safe

When visiting St. Petersburg, Florida, it’s natural to have concerns about safety. However, by taking some general precautions and following a few safety tips, you can greatly reduce the risks and ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

General Precautions

Like any other city, St. Petersburg has its share of crime, but it is generally considered a safe place to visit. To stay safe, it is recommended to:

• Stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
• Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas.
• Keep your valuables, such as wallets, phones, and cameras, secure and out of sight.
• Lock your car doors and keep windows closed when driving.
• Use well-lit and busy ATMs.

By following these simple precautions, you can minimize the chances of becoming a target for opportunistic crimes.

Safety Tips for Tourists

If you’re a tourist visiting St. Petersburg, there are a few additional safety tips to keep in mind:

• Stick to well-known and tourist-friendly areas, especially at night.
• Research and plan your itinerary in advance, including transportation options.
• Use reputable transportation services or official taxis.
• Keep a copy of your identification documents in a safe place.
• Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the Florida sun by wearing sunscreen and a hat.

Remember, it’s always a good idea to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, regardless of the destination you’re visiting.

Advice for Families & Seniors

If you’re traveling with your family or if you’re a senior visitor, it’s important to take some additional precautions to ensure everyone’s safety:

• Discuss safety rules and guidelines with your family members or travel companions.
• Stay together in crowded areas and use the buddy system.
• Avoid leaving children or vulnerable adults unattended.
• Plan activities and attractions that are suitable for all ages and physical abilities.
• Take breaks and rest when needed to avoid exhaustion.

By following these tips, you can create a safe and enjoyable experience for your entire family or group.

For more information on staying safe in St. Petersburg, you can visit the official website of the St. Petersburg Police Department at https://police.stpete.org/ . They provide valuable resources and updates on safety measures in the city.

While no city is completely free of crime, St. Petersburg remains a very safe place to live and visit compared to other major metro areas. By being aware of your surroundings, avoiding high crime neighborhoods, and taking basic precautions, you can feel secure exploring everything this Florida gem has to offer.

Hi there, I'm Jessica, the solo traveler behind the travel blog Eye & Pen. I launched my site in 2020 to share over a decade of adventurous stories and vivid photography from my expeditions across 30+ countries. When I'm not wandering, you can find me freelance writing from my home base in Denver, hiking Colorado's peaks with my rescue pup Belle, or enjoying local craft beers with friends.

I specialize in budget tips, unique lodging spotlights, road trip routes, travel hacking guides, and female solo travel for publications like Travel+Leisure and Matador Network. Through my photography and writing, I hope to immerse readers in new cultures and compelling destinations not found in most guidebooks. I'd love for you to join me on my lifelong journey of visual storytelling!

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St. Petersburg   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Getty Images |

Why Go To St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg stands at the geographic and cultural borders of the west and east. While the city's appearance was influenced by the intricate and ordered architecture of Western Europe, it is still infused with a vibrant and persevering Russian spirit. St. Petersburg largely owes its dualistic nature to its founder, Peter the Great, an unabashed lover of all things European. In the early 1700s, Peter commissioned the city's streets and architecture to resemble his favorite western cities.

And the results of the czar's great experiment? A grand European-style city, replete with long boulevards, narrow canals and grand public squares. It's also an epicenter of distinctly Russian culture, as the place where literature and music greats like Dostoyevsky, Tchaikovsky and Prokofiev all found their voice. Moscow might be known for its luxury and decadence, but St. Petersburg offers compromise between the expensive tastes of Russia's capital and the often-overrated (and just plain crowded) cities of Western Europe.

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Best of St. Petersburg

Best hotels in st. petersburg.

• # 1 in Grand Hotel Europe
• # 2 in Hotel Astoria, a Rocco Forte Hotel
• # 3 in SO/ Saint Petersburg

Best Things to Do in St. Petersburg

• # 1 in Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace
• # 2 in Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood
• # 3 in St. Isaac's Cathedral

St. Petersburg Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit St. Petersburg is from mid-June to September. Although it's expensive, St. Petersburg's near 24 hours of sunshine and White Nights celebrations during the summer months are not to be missed. Summers are generally cool but pleasant, with low temperatures dropping to the 50s and highs hovering around 70 degrees, so be sure to pack accordingly. Traveling to St. Petersburg in the winter is rare; days are short, and temperatures will dip well below freezing into the teens.

Weather in St. Petersburg

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

• Bring your Russian dictionary English is widely spoken in major hotels and restaurants, but you'll find very few English speakers outside the tourist districts. You'll hear Russian and see Cyrillic almost exclusively, so it's best to be familiar with the alphabet before your trip.
• Carry change for restrooms While St. Petersburg once had reputation for inadequate, ill-equipped public restrooms, the city has improved its facilities. However, use of restrooms in some public spaces, such as parks and shopping malls, may require a small payment (around 30 rubles or 50 cents).
• Breathe easy Thanks to legislation passed in 2013, bars, restaurants and public transportation are now nonsmoking spaces, making secondhand smoke less of an issue for visitors. However, public sidewalks are another story.

How to Save Money in St. Petersburg

• Invest in a St. Petersburg Card With the St. Petersburg Card , you'll enjoy free admission to more than 80 museums and tours, including the Peter and Paul Fortress , Peterhof and the Russian Museum , among others. Plus, you can use the card to pay your fare on public transportation. St. Petersburg Cards can be purchased in two-, three-, five- or seven-day increments.
• Book early Making your hotel reservations up to a year in advance – especially if you intend to visit during June's White Nights celebration – can save your wallet some pain.
• Protect your pockets As in many large cities, pickpockets are prevalent in St. Petersburg. Keep a close eye on your belongings in crowded areas, such as Nevsky Prospekt and the metro.

Culture & Customs

English is spoken in major hotels and restaurants, but you'll find mostly Russian speakers in the more local areas like the market or small inns. Some helpful Russian greetings include the informal "hello" ( priv-EYET ), the formal "hello" ( ZDRA-stvooy-te ), the informal "goodbye" ( pah-KAH ), and the formal "goodbye" ( Dah svih-DA-nee-ye ). Saying "thank you" ( Spa-SEE-ba) is always nice as well.

The ruble is the official currency of Russia. One U.S. dollar is equivalent to about 64 rubles. Plan to check the current exchange rate before your trip. While you might want cash for some purposes (purchasing metro tokens, for instance), you'll find that most restaurants, stores and hotels accept credit cards. Currency exchanges in airports generally offer less favorable rates than banks. ATMs are common in Russian cities, so your debit card might work (though you should check with your bank before you go regarding fees and exchange rates).

Tipping for service is common practice in Russia, and tips of around 15% are typical.

What to Eat

While it's true that visitors can still find classic Russian culinary staples like borscht, stroganoff, cabbage stew and caviar on menus around the city, travelers will also enjoy more contemporary dishes as well. And fortunately for visitors, food prices are more reasonable in St. Petersburg compared to Moscow .

You'll find hundreds of culinary hot spots in St. Petersburg, especially along Nevsky Prospekt, ranging from luxurious eateries to sprawling, local markets. If you're looking for an affordable snack on the go, try a Russian crepe, or blini. This Russian pancake is usually stuffed with butter, caviar or other fillings and is a treat for the adventurous foodie. You'll find it at street vendors around the city. To acquaint yourself with local produce, meats and cheeses, pay a visit to the Kuznechnyy Rynok (Kuznechny Market) a favorite among tourists for its honey vendors and plentiful souvenirs.

If you're craving a classic Russian meal, consider Literary Café on Nevsky Prospekt, which once played host to the likes of Pushkin and Dostoyevsky. For a more modern take on Russian fare, head to Hamlet + Jacks for dishes like Baltic herring and Siberian venison. And for Georgian cuisine, Phali Hinkali is a top spot thanks to its hearty dishes. If you're celebrating a special occasion, or just want to treat yourself to a memorable meal, critics and travelers suggest making a reservation at Palkin , which is known for its elegant dining room and fusion of Russian and French cuisines. Other well-reviewed eateries include Probka (Italian), Bekitzer (Israeli) and Etnos Café (Georgian).

St. Petersburg has a mixed reputation when it comes to safety, but most agree that it has improved from the chaotic time immediately following the fall of the Soviet Union. Discrimination against ethnic groups, specifically individuals of Asian or African descent, is still reportedly an issue in Russia, as is discrimination against LGBTQ individuals. Government officials warn against traveling alone at night to avoid violent confrontations.

In October 2019, the U.S. State Department issued an advisory urging increased caution in Russia because of possible terrorism and arbitrary enforcement of laws. However, these mainly applied to specific areas (such as the North Caucasus for terrorism and occupied portion of Ukraine for abuses by authorities). With respect to St. Petersburg specifically, the State Department noted possible delays in services for U.S. citizens because of reductions in diplomatic personnel. According to the State Department, you can be detained by Russian police for not having your passport with you (police in Russia do not need to show probable cause to stop, question or detain you). Plan to carry your passport with you at all times. Visit the State Department's website for more information.

When walking around, you'll also want to be very careful when crossing roads, as drivers don't always yield to pedestrians here. Use crosswalks and only cross when vehicles have come to a complete stop. Several travel sources advise tourists not to drink the tap water in St. Petersburg due to the antiquated pipes and high metal levels in the tap water. To avoid illness, only drink filtered or bottled water.

Getting Around St. Petersburg

The best way to get around St. Petersburg is by public transportation; otherwise, you can walk around Nevsky Prospekt, the main thoroughfare. There's an extensive bus and metro system with lines that run throughout the center and into the city's outskirts. The tram or trolley is best for short journeys through downtown. For trips to the suburbs, try the metro system. Rental cars are available at the Pulkovo Airport (LED), but acquiring the proper driving documents can be a hassle. Taxis are also a prevalent (though, at times, unsafe) way to move around.

From the airport, a taxi can cost anywhere from 600 to 1500 rubles (or about $9.50 to $24), depending on your destination. Taxi Pulkovo is the preferred company; you'll see Taxi Pulkovo stands in the arrivals area of the airport. However, several recent travelers have been overcharged for taxi trips between the airport and the city. Many recommended relying on smartphone apps instead to ensure a fair price.

Entry & Exit Requirements

Acquiring a visa to travel in Russia is a bit more complicated and expensive than visiting other countries. Every foreign traveler entering Russia must have a Russian-based sponsor (like a hotel, tour company, university or relative). In addition to a valid U.S. passport, you must also obtain a travel visa from a Russian embassy or consulate prior to arriving in Russia. If you plan to stay in Russia for more than seven days, you have to register your visa and migration card (the white paper document given by the border police on first entry to Russia) with the Federal Migration Service. Tourists visas start at $160 per person. You can apply for a visa up to 90 days before your intended visa start date. For more information on entry and exit requirements, visit the U.S. State Department  website .

St. Petersburg is built around a network of rivers and canals, with many of the city's top attractions located on the banks of the water.

Explore More of St. Petersburg

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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Is It Safe To Visit St. Petersburg?

St. Petersburg is one of the most beautiful cities in Russia and the world. It is an important city for history, art, architecture, and culture. But is it safe to visit St. Petersburg?

The answer to that question is yes, St. Petersburg is generally safe for visitors. The city has a low crime rate and a good standard of living, so most people who visit the city do so without incident. St. Petersburg is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Russia, and the Russian government is taking measures to make sure that visitors to the city are safe and secure.

In terms of travel safety, St. Petersburg is generally a safe city. There are some areas of the city where pickpocketing and other petty crimes can occur, but these incidents are rare. The city has a well-developed infrastructure and public transport system, which makes it easy to get around without having to worry about safety. It is also important to note that Russia has a strong police presence in St. Petersburg, and they are quick to respond to any reports of crime or suspicious activity.

In terms of daily costs, St. Petersburg is a relatively affordable city. The city is home to some of the best restaurants and hotels in the country, but it is still possible to find budget-friendly accommodation and dining options. The average cost of a hotel room in St. Petersburg is $50 per night, while a meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost around $20 per person.

The visa requirements for visitors to St. Petersburg depend on the nationality of the traveler. Citizens of most countries can get a visa on arrival in St. Petersburg, but it is best to check with the Russian Embassy or Consulate in your home country before you travel. It is also important to ensure that you have a valid passport and all the necessary documents to enter the country.

Overall, St. Petersburg is a safe city for visitors. You should take necessary precautions to protect your belongings, and always be aware of your surroundings. As long as you are mindful of potential risks, you should have a safe and enjoyable trip to this vibrant city.

Is St. Petersburg A Safe Destination For Tourists?

St. Petersburg is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Russia. With its vast and varied history, stunning architecture, and incredible nightlife, it’s no wonder why so many people flock to this vibrant city. But, like any city, it is important to consider safety when visiting St. Petersburg.

First of all, crime rates in St. Petersburg are relatively low when compared to other large cities. In fact, it consistently ranks among the top five safest cities in the world, according to the World Economic Forum. Additionally, St. Petersburg is home to a large number of police stations, making it easy to access help if needed. Furthermore, the city is well-lit at night and boasts a variety of CCTV cameras throughout the city.

When it comes to public transportation, St. Petersburg has a number of reliable options including buses, trams, trolleybuses, and taxis. The Metro is the most popular choice as it is efficient, easy to use, and inexpensive. All public transport services are well-maintained and safe to use.

The following table provides information about the safety of St. Petersburg:

When visiting St. Petersburg, there are a few things to keep in mind. It is important to be aware of your surroundings and to avoid walking alone at night. Additionally, it is best to keep your valuables out of sight and to stay in well-lit areas. Be sure to also be aware of potential scams, as tourist areas are often targeted by criminals. Finally, it is important to be aware of cultural and religious customs. While St. Petersburg is relatively safe, it is important to use common sense and stay safe.

In conclusion, St. Petersburg is a safe destination for tourists. With its low crime rate, easily accessible police stations, and reliable public transport, tourists can be confident that they can safely explore this historic city.

Exploring St. Petersburg Safely: Tips For The Travelers

Are you planning a trip to St. Petersburg and wondering if it is safe? St. Petersburg is a vibrant and historical city, but as with all other destinations, it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable stay.

Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to maximize your safety while in St. Petersburg. Here are some tips to help you explore St. Petersburg safely:

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times and stay in populated areas.
• Know the local laws and regulations to avoid any potential legal problems.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and don’t flash your valuables.
• Be aware of pickpockets and scam artists in tourist areas.
• Be aware of the risks associated with public transportation and taxis.
• Don’t leave your belongings unattended.
• Keep your passport and other important documents in a secure place.
• Don’t accept any drinks or food from strangers.

While following the above tips will help you to have a safe and enjoyable trip to St. Petersburg, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and to take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Additionally, it is important to research the city before you travel to make sure that you are aware of any potential hazards.

St. Petersburg is an amazing city and with a bit of preparation and careful planning, you will be able to explore St. Petersburg safely and have an unforgettable experience.

Yes, it is generally considered safe to visit St. Petersburg.

It is recommended to take the same security measures you would take when visiting any large city, such as being aware of your surroundings and not carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.

It is generally advised to avoid certain areas of St. Petersburg, especially after dark. These include the city’s industrial areas and parks.

Yes, certain areas of St. Petersburg can be dangerous, especially after dark. It is advisable to avoid parks, industrial areas and some outlying suburbs.

It is recommended to be aware of your surroundings at all times and to avoid areas that may be dangerous, such as parks and industrial areas, particularly after dark.

Yes, there are some health concerns when visiting St. Petersburg, such as mosquito-borne illnesses like malaria and dengue fever.

There is no significant political or social unrest in St. Petersburg, though visitors should remain aware of any current events or possible disturbances.

Yes, it is important to be respectful of local customs and cultural norms in St. Petersburg, such as dressing appropriately and avoiding public displays of affection.

Yes, visitors from certain countries will need to obtain a visa or passport before visiting St. Petersburg. It is advisable to check the relevant embassy websites for specific requirements.

It is advisable to familiarise yourself with the local language and customs before visiting St. Petersburg, and to keep a copy of important documents such as passports and visas on you at all times.

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The Best Time to Visit St Petersburg, FL, US for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit St Petersburg for ideal weather are

October 29th to April 22nd

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

St Petersburg Travel Guide

Temperature.

• Perceived Temperature
• Rain and snow
• Humidity and wind
• The busiest and least popular months
• Overall travel experience by time of year

Other St Petersburg Travel Info

Weather in st petersburg.

Average temperatures in St Petersburg vary somewhat. Considering humidity, temperatures feel hot for about half of the year and otherwise nice with a fair chance of precipitation about half of the year. The area is somewhat temperate — in the 48th percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit St Petersburg, the hottest months are August, July, and then June. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally early to mid August where highs are regularly around 90.7°F (32.6°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 79.3°F (26.3°C) at night.

St Petersburg Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

St petersburg temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

St Petersburg Perceived Temperature (F)

St petersburg perceived temperature (c), average st petersburg temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in St Petersburg are November, April, and then December. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around early to mid May. For example, on the week of May 7th there are no days of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in early July with an average of 3 days of significant precipitation the week of July 2nd.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in St Petersburg.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in St Petersburg (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

St Petersburg has some very humid months, and above average humidity throughout the year. The least humid month is May (60.3% relative humidity), and the most humid month is December (71.6%).

Wind in St Petersburg is usually moderate . The windiest month is May, followed by October and November. May’s average wind speed of around 8.3 knots (9.5 MPH or 15.3 KPH) is considered “a gentle breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in mid to late August where average top sustained speeds reach 17 knots, which is considered a fresh breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in St Petersburg.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to st petersburg.

Our best data indicates this area is generally safe. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are no travel advisories or warnings for the United States; exercise normal security precautions. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Dec 04, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in St Petersburg, FL, US is March, followed by February and June. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit St Petersburg in September. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall st petersburg travel experience by season, spring (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel warm. Highs range from 88.9°F (31.6°C) and 72.6°F (22.6°C) with warmer temperatures in the later months. Rain is rare with 3 to 4 days of significant precipitation per month. Spring is the second busiest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for things to do.

Summer (June through August)

The middle-year months have very comfortable weather with high temperatures that are quite warm. These months see the most precipitation with 9 to 12 days of precipitation per month. June – August is fairly slow season for tourism in St Petersburg, so lodging and other accommodations may cost slightly less.

Fall (September through November)

Fall daily highs range from 89.8°F (32.1°C) and 74.5°F (23.6°C), which will feel very nice given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a significant amount: 3 to 10 days per month. Tourism is the slowest during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be affordably priced.

Winter (December through February)

Weather is somewhat cool this time of year in St Petersburg to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 74.2°F (23.4°C) and 68.5°F (20.3°C). On average, it rains or snows a smalll amount: 3 to 4 times per month. These times of year are the busiest with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › the United States › St Petersburg, FL, US

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Essential Guide

Everything you need to know to prepare for a trip to st. petersburg….

The more you prepare for your holiday in St. Petersburg, the easier it will be. Our comprehensive guide will help you.

We can help you make the right choice from hundreds of St. Petersburg hotels and hostels.

Live like a local in self-catering apartments at convenient locations in St. Petersburg.

Comprehensive solutions for those who relocate to St. Petersburg to live, work or study.

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Get around in comfort with a chauffeured car or van to suit your budget and requirements.

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Need tickets for the Mariinsky, the Hermitage, a football game or any event? We can help.

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10 Areas to Avoid in St. Petersburg, FL (2023) [SAFETY GUIDE]

St. Petersburg, Florida, is famed for its vibrant arts scene, pristine beaches, and enchanting waterfront parks. Yet, like any bustling city, there are areas to avoid in St. Petersburg, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the local landscape. In my many visits to this sun-drenched paradise, I’ve learned that a little insider knowledge goes a long way for a safe, enjoyable trip.

Navigating the city can be a delightful experience with crystal-clear waters and friendly locals guiding your every step. However, as I’ve traversed and gotten to know the streets of St. Pete , I have noted certain pockets of the city that require caution. Identifying these spots is essential for any traveler looking to fully embrace the charm of St. Pete without unwanted surprises.

In this article, I will share my insights, drawing from personal experiences and extensive research. By highlighting the less-than-desirable neighborhoods, I aim to equip you with the knowledge needed to craft a rewarding and secure itinerary. Stay tuned as we explore together how to make the most of your St. Petersburg journey, keeping clear of any unnecessary pitfalls.

Top Areas to Avoid in St. Petersburg, Florida

1. 34th st./us-19.

When it comes to navigating St. Petersburg, Florida, travelers are often advised to exercise caution around the 34th St./US-19 area, which is notorious as one of the areas to avoid in St. Petersburg, especially at night. Due to its bustling traffic and reported incidents, it’s a spot that locals tend to avoid, especially after dark.

This stretch of road is known for its challenging navigation, which can be intimidating for those unfamiliar with the area. As a result, visitors are suggested to consider alternate routes or heightened vigilance when traversing this corridor in St. Petersburg.

2. 5th Ave. N.

At the center of St. Petersburg, near 5th Ave. N., is one of the areas to avoid in St. Petersburg, especially at night. This location, which often sees a flurry of minor crimes, calls for travelers to be particularly vigilant. By day, the street exudes energy, but after the sun sets, its atmosphere changes, raising safety concerns for those who may not be attentive.

To make the most of your visit to this part of the city, it’s advised to select brightly lit routes and travel in groups during evening hours. Even amid the dynamic backdrop of local shops and restaurants that 5th Ave. N. offers, that staying watchful is crucial to fully enjoying St. Petersburg’s diverse offerings without incident.

3. South Side St. Pete

South Side St. Pete has a reputation for being less tourist-friendly, causing travelers to be wary. As an area with high crime rates in St. Petersburg, safety concerns peak post-sunset, prompting visitors to choose caution over curiosity. This community, while rich in local flavor, invites extra vigilance due to occasional reports of crime.

When exploring South Side St. Pete, it’s best to plan your visit during daylight hours or with a local guide. Stay aware of your surroundings and prioritize safety to enjoy the area’s unique character without incident.

4. Childs Park Neighborhood

The Childs Park neighborhood is not traditionally known as a prime destination for tourists in St. Petersburg. With a history of crime, visitors often skip this area, which is sometimes listed among the St. Petersburg FL high-crime areas. The local atmosphere, although authentically Floridian, can be challenging for travelers unfamiliar with its streets, especially after dark.

It’s wise to be particularly attentive while visiting Childs Park and perhaps consider other areas for nighttime activities. The community has its charm during the day, but caution is predominantly advised for those venturing through.

5. Historic Midtown

In St. Petersburg FL, Historic Midtown is a neighborhood with deep cultural roots and a vibrant history. Though beloved for its authenticity, it’s less visited by tourists and is often listed among areas with high crime rates in St. Petersburg. With a sense of community pride tinged with caution, visitors are encouraged to explore during the day to soak in the area’s rich heritage while remaining secure.

The streets weave tales of past and present, but the area demands awareness for those unaccustomed to its nuances. Engage with Midtown’s history and local businesses wisely, and consider guided options for a full experience without worries. It’s an area best experienced with knowledge of when and how to visit.

6. Melrose Mercy/Pine Acres

In St. Petersburg, “Melrose Mercy/Pine Acres” is a locale with a genuine Floridian vibe but duly noted as one of the St. Petersburg FL areas to avoid at night. This district, rich in its own stories, emits a less-visited charm due to prevailing safety concerns.

By daylight, Melrose Mercy/Pine Acres offers a peek into local life, but visitors should be mindful and considerate. Evening hours suggest a more watchful approach and a local guide could enhance your experience and ease.

7. Harbordale Area

The Harbordale Area in St. Petersburg mirrors its siblings with a tapestry of local charm tinged with caution. Its sun-kissed streets are home to tales less known, awaiting the curious yet cautious visitor. Amidst the Floridian backdrop, Harbordale’s cultural threads are woven tightly, creating a mosaic best viewed under the safety of sunlight.

Visitors should be aware, that Harbordale is considered one of the potentially unsafe areas in St. Petersburg, especially as the day wanes. A guided presence could unveil its stories securely, allowing adventure within a frame of care. Enhance your visit by connecting with the community during the day for a genuine experience.

8. 22nd St. South Corridor

The 22nd St. South Corridor shares much in common with its St. Petersburg counterparts, presenting a true slice of local life with a caveat. It’s a lively community segment tinged with caution, where visitors must maintain vigilance, particularly since it’s known as one of the crime hotspots in St. Petersburg. Through daylight hours, its cultural heartbeat is vibrant, flaunting modest diners and stores that invite the savvy wanderer for some exploration.

As twilight approaches, it’s prudent to proceed with increased caution or to consider departing, mirroring the city’s overall pattern of heightened alertness come nightfall. By day, engaging with this area can yield a deeply authentic urban experience, but one should always do so with eyes wide open. To experience the 22nd St. South Corridor’s charm without reservations, plan for an early visit.

9. Coquina Key

Nestled amidst the natural beauty of St. Petersburg, Coquina Key stands apart with a hint of mystery. The area beckons with its picturesque waterways and lush landscapes, inviting visitors for daytime discovery. However, like much of St. Petersburg, Coquina Key is listed among the areas with higher crime statistics, suggesting a level of care when the sun sets.

Come evening, the scenic Coquina Key implies it might be prudent to heed the advice typically given for avoiding crime in St. Petersburg neighborhoods, ensuring a retreat that promotes safety and peace of mind. Explore its offerings by day, relishing in the Florida sun and the community spirit, but remember to plan your exit as twilight approaches.

10. Highland Oaks Neighborhood

Nestled within the Highland Oaks Neighborhood, which resides in the shadow of St. Petersburg’s effervescent life, one encounters a place of stark contrasts. In the daylight, it emanates a serene residential allure, but caution is imperative as it is counted among the riskier areas in St. Pete. Its unpretentious demeanor belies an underlying need for attentiveness, particularly when evening descends and the streets grow still.

To wade through Highland Oaks during daylight is to experience the tranquility of suburban living. Still, its subtle facade is a reminder to heed the general advice for an early evening retreat that lingers over the city when the day wanes. For those intent on discovery, it’s prudent to do so with the safety of the sun overhead.

St. Petersburg, FL, has much to offer with its vibrant arts scene, bustling downtown, and beautiful coastal views, but it’s wise for both residents and visitors to be mindful of their surroundings. Part of enjoying the charm and attractions of any city involves staying aware of areas that might be less than welcoming. Navigating around certain neighborhoods that have higher crime rates or lack of amenities can ensure a more positive experience while exploring the diverse and culturally rich city of St. Petersburg.

Enjoying the sun-kissed beaches and soaking up the local culture should be at the top of your to-do list when in St. Petersburg. Just remember to exercise a bit of caution, as in any city, by steering clear of areas that are known for negative reasons. Doing so will not only keep your trip memorable for all the right reasons but will also let you fully embrace the warmth and charm that St. Petersburg is famous for. Stay savvy, stay safe, and most importantly, don’t miss out on the incredible experiences that await in the safer nooks of the city!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key areas to avoid in st. petersburg, fl for safety reasons.

While it’s important to note that safety can vary over time, historically, pockets within South St. Petersburg, such as parts of Childs Park, Melrose Mercy/Pine Acres, and the areas around 34th Street South have been noted for higher crime rates. Always check the latest crime statistics and local advisories for up-to-date information.

Are there specific types of crimes that are more common in these areas to avoid?

The areas mentioned often report higher incidences of property crimes such as burglary and auto theft, as well as violent crimes compared to other parts of St. Petersburg. It’s advisable to remain vigilant, secure personal belongings, and be aware of your surroundings in these neighborhoods.

Is it safe to visit downtown St. Petersburg and the waterfront?

Yes, downtown St. Petersburg and the waterfront areas are generally well-regarded and popular among tourists and locals alike. These areas are typically safe, especially during daytime and when sticking to well-lit and busy streets, but it’s still important to take regular precautions as you would in any city.

How can visitors stay safe while exploring St. Petersburg?

Visitors should stay in well-trafficked areas, avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar neighborhoods, keep valuables out of sight, and remain aware of their surroundings. Using reputable transportation options and staying informed about the areas you plan to visit can greatly increase your safety.

Does St. Petersburg have resources for tourists regarding safety and areas to avoid?

Yes, the St. Petersburg Police Department provides crime statistics and safety tips. Additionally, visitors can access resources from the St. Petersburg Visitors Bureau for recommendations on safe and popular areas to visit, as well as any neighborhoods currently advised against.

Post Author

Marina Yoveva

Originally from Bulgaria, Marina caught the travel bug about 10 years ago with her first trip to Italy. Ever since there she has been obsessed with learning new cultures, languages and sharing her experiences and travel expertise online. Her favorite country for traveling to so far is Spain.

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Where to stay in St. Petersburg, FL first time: 5 Safe areas

Finding where to stay in St. Petersburg as a first-timer can be a headache. That’s why, in today’s article, I will help you to find safe places to stay in St. Petersburg for first-time visitors.

I will share with you what I believe are the best and safest areas to stay in St. Petersburg for first-timers and tourists, along with a helpful map and areas to avoid. I’ll also share where I stayed in St. Petersburg and recommend some of the best hotels for various budgets.

St. Petersburg is a popular beach destination on the west coast of Florida, United States. Located between Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, the city is known for its beautiful waterfront, vibrant arts scene, and numerous outdoor recreational opportunities. 

The city is recognized for its thriving arts community, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters. The Salvador Dalí Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, and The Dalí are notable cultural institutions. The Mahaffey Theater and the Palladium Theater host a variety of performances.

St. Petersburg offers a range of outdoor activities. The city has several parks, including the waterfront Vinoy Park and North Shore Park. You can enjoy activities such as boating, fishing, and biking along the scenic Pinellas Trail.

The city is close to the Gulf Coast’s white sandy beaches, such as St. Pete Beach and Fort De Soto Park, known for their beautiful shores and recreational activities.

Is St. Petersburg safe to visit?

St. Petersburg is generally safe to visit. Just like any other city, it has property crimes, petty theft, robbery, bike theft or a car break in. It is important to use common sense, take care of your belongings, don’t keep valuables in my car, and avoid walking alone at night.

Also, Be aware of weather conditions, especially during hurricane season (between June and November). You should stay informed about any potential weather-related advisories.

Table of Content

Where to stay in St. Petersburg for the first time?

• St Pete Beach
• Downtown Saint Petersburg
• Treasure Island
• Madeira Beach
• North Redington Beach

The best and safe areas to stay in St. Petersburg for first-timers and tourists are St Pete Beach, Downtown Saint Petersburg, Treasure Island, Madeira Beach, and North Redington Beach.

In general, Downtown is the best area for those who want a blend of city life and cultural experiences. This area is vibrant and walkable, with a mix of museums, galleries, shops, and restaurants. You’ll find attractions like the Salvador Dali Museum, the Chihuly Collection, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

If you prefer a beach vacation, you can book your accommodation in  St Pete Beach, Treasure Island, Madeira Beach, and North Redington Beach. These areas are known for their beautiful sandy beaches, and variety of beachfront hotels and resorts.

Just take a note that accommodations on the beach area tend to be very expensive, even for a 3-star hotel. But they have many choices, so I am sure, you will find one that suits your budgets and needs;

While Downtown and the beachfront area are generally safe for visitors, it is best to avoid staying in certain neighborhoods if possible. These include Jordan Park and Bartlett Park because they have higher crime rates compared to other parts of the city.

During my trip to St. Petersburg, I stayed at the St. Pete Beach Suites . It was a lovely beachfront hotel, located close to everything, easy access to the beach and tourist facilities. My suite was clean and comfortable. Would definitely stay here again.

Below is a map of the popular areas in St. Petersburg for first-time travelers. You can scroll down to view the live map.

Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in St. Petersburg, especially for first-time visitors. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget. 

All hotels in St. Petersburg have been carefully selected by me from well-known and secure booking sites such as booking.com, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them. 

If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.

5 Safe areas to stay in St. Petersburg for first-timers and tourists:

1. st pete beach.

St Pete Beach is one of the most popular areas to stay in St. Petersburg for first-timers, especially for those who want a lively beach holiday. It is located on the barrier island of Long Key, known for its stunning sandy beaches and lively atmosphere.

St Pete Beach boasts wide, white sandy beaches with clear Gulf of Mexico waters, making it a favorite spot for sunbathing, swimming, and various water activities.

The Gulf Coast of Florida is famous for its stunning sunsets, and St. Pete Beach is no exception. Many visitors gather to watch the sunset and celebrate the “green flash” phenomenon.

St. Pete Beach offers a variety of waterfront dining options where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and beautiful views of the Gulf. Corey Avenue is packed with shops, galleries, and restaurants.

This area is home to the historic Pass-a-Grille district. It has a laid-back atmosphere, with quaint shops, restaurants, and historic architecture.

In addition to beach activities, you can explore nearby parks, engage in water-based excursions, or take part in eco-tours to discover the natural beauty of the region. A short drive away, Fort De Soto Park offers natural beauty, historical sites, and outdoor activities.

Best places to stay in St. Petersburg Beach for first-timers:

Mid-range ($$): St. Pete Beach Suites , popular 3-star hotel located in St. Pete Beach, close to everything, within walking distance to the beach, restaurants, ice cream and shops on the strip. It has an outdoor pool, barbecue facilities, free bikes to use, and onsite free parking. Rooms are comfortable and spacious.

Luxury ($$$): The Don CeSar , 4-star historic beachfront hotel, often referred to as the Pink Palace, has direct access to the beach with many deck chairs to use. It also has  a pool, a fitness center, and Good breakfast. Good base for beach vacations and exploring nearby points of interest like Salvador Dalí’s art at The Dalí Museum, Fort De Soto Park, and Tropicana Field.

Budget ($): Carlton House Motel and Suites , 1-star good value for money accommodation located on 71st Avenue, within walking distance from the sandy beaches and a few restaurants. The hotel has paid airport transfer, family rooms, and an outdoor swimming pool. All rooms come with a kitchenette.

2. Downtown Saint Petersburg

Downtown St. Petersburg is the best base for those who want a lively city experience with cultural offerings. It is a vibrant and lively area known for its cultural attractions, waterfront views, and diverse entertainment options.

Downtown is home to several museums and art galleries. The Salvador Dalí Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Chihuly Collection showcase impressive collections of art and cultural exhibits.

The downtown area is situated along the waterfront, offering beautiful views of Tampa Bay. Parks like Vinoy Park and North Straub Park provide green spaces for relaxation, picnics, and events.

 The St. Petersburg Pier is a popular destination with shops, restaurants, and recreational activities. It provides a scenic spot for walking, fishing, or simply enjoying the waterfront.

The downtown area offers a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and bars. The nightlife scene is also vibrant, with bars, clubs, and live music venues. Central Avenue is a popular thoroughfare with lots of dining and entertainment options.

Downtown features unique boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries, making it a great place for shopping and exploring local businesses.

St. Petersburg has been designated as a Cultural Arts District, reflecting its commitment to the arts. The district encompasses a variety of cultural venues and public art installations.

The downtown area is home to several historic districts with charming architecture. The Old Northeast and Roser Park historic districts are known for their well-preserved homes and tree-lined streets.

Downtown St. Petersburg is easily accessible, and the city has a convenient trolley system that provides transportation to various attractions. While Downtown itself is not on the beach, it’s a short drive to nearby St. Pete Beach and Treasure Island.

Best places to stay in Downtown St. Petersburg for first-timers:

Luxury ($$$): Prestige Collection, Hotel Boutique ,  5-star hotel centrally located in Downtown St Petersburg, 1-2 blocks to the bay waterfront, walkable to all the sights and hotspots. Easy access to Spa Beach, Chihuly Collection and The Pier on foot and by Uber/Taxi. 

Mid-range ($$): The Birchwood , 4-star hotel centrally located in the middle of downtown St. Petersburg, easy access to nearby cultural attractions, shops, restaurants, and bars. Within walking distance to the  The Chihuly Collection, Museum of Fine Arts, and Saint Petersburg Museum of History.

Budget ($): Hyatt Place St. Petersburg/Downtown , popular 3-star hotel in the heart of the city,  easy walking distance to restaurants, museums and waterfront. You can park your car at the hotel, and explore Downtown on foot. Close to the Chihuly Collection and The Dali’ Museum.

3. Treasure Island

Treasure Island is one of the best locations in St Petersburg for beach vacation. Treasure Island boasts several miles of sandy beaches along the Gulf of Mexico. You can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports.

One of the neighborhoods within Treasure Island is Sunset Beach, known for its beautiful sunsets. It offers a relaxed atmosphere and is a favorite spot for those seeking a peaceful beach experience.

John’s Pass is a popular attraction located nearby, offering a boardwalk with shops, restaurants, and water-based activities. It’s a vibrant area where you can enjoy shopping, dining, and water excursions.

Best places to stay in St. Petersburg in Treasure Island:

Mid-range ($$): Treasure Island Beach Resort , great 3-star beachfront accommodation in Treasure Island, offering  suites with a kitchenette and private bathroom. Walking distance to various restaurants, ice cream, pizza, and groceries. Short Uber ride from the famous John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk. It has free parking, which is a bonus for those who drive.

Mid-range ($$): FUSION Resort Two Bedroom Suites , popular 3-star hotel located within a 15 min walk to the beach. You can find several pubs and restaurants nearby. It has one complimentary parking, free bikes, 24-hour front desk, and comfortable accommodations with a kitchen.

Budget ($): Sea Jay Motel and Marina , lovely art deco style Motel conveniently located within walking to the beach, supermarket, and tourist amenities. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, water sports facilities and barbecue facilities.

4. Madeira Beach

Madeira Beach is a great choice for those who prefer a more relaxed beach atmosphere with a focus on water activities, fishing, and a quaint village setting. 

One of the main attractions in Madeira Beach is John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk. This area offers a blend of shops, restaurants, and water activities. You can explore unique boutiques, enjoy fresh seafood, and take part in boat tours or water excursions.

Best places to stay in St. Petersburg in Madeira Beach:

Mid-range ($$): Barefoot Beach Club , 3-star beachfront hotel located on a private beach,  5 minutes’ walk from John’s Pass entertainment and historic area, 5 mins drive from Host Dolphin Tours. It has a pool with a view of the Gulf of Mexico, free parking, and a fitness center.

Mid-range ($$): Cambria Hotel St Petersburg-Madeira Beach Marina , popular 3-star seafront hotel on Madeira Beach, walking distance to beach, restaurants, nightlife, shopping; easy to travel to Treasure island and the other parts of Tampa, like Tropicana Field.

Mid-range ($$): Shoreline Island Resort – Exclusively Adult , 3-star good value for money adults only accommodation, catering to adults 21 or older, located directly on the beach.  The rooms have a fully-equipped kitchen, so you can prepare your own meal and the Publix Market is a few minutes by car.

5. North Redington Beach

North Redington Beach might be the right choice if you prefer a peaceful and residential beach experience away from the hustle and bustle of more commercialized areas.

Best places to stay in St. Petersburg in North Redington Beach:

• Mid-range ($$): DoubleTree Beach Resort by Hilton Tampa Bay
• Budget ($): Hotel SOL
• Budget ($): Sand Vista Motel

In conclusion, St Pete Beach, Downtown St. Petersburg, Treasure Island, Madeira Beach, North Redington Beach are the best places to stay in St Petersburg for first-timers and tourists . These are generally safe areas and provide a range of accommodations for visitors to stay and explore the city.

You can continue reading about other popular destinations in Florida in these articles:

• Safe areas to stay in Key West for first time
• Safe areas to stay in Miami for first time
• Best areas to stay in Fort Lauderdale without a car
• Best areas to stay in Orlando without a car

There you have it, my recommendations for the most popular and safest neighborhoods that you can stay during your first trip to St. Petersburg. I hope you enjoyed my article and find it both informative and helpful.

If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality content.

About Author: Ocean Cameron

I'm Ocean, founder and main editor of travelhotelexpert.com. I’m a passionate traveler who specializes in uncovering the best hotels and locations in every city, especially for first-timers, all without the need for a car.

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5 things to know about Monday’s solar eclipse

E xcitement is building as North America prepares for a total solar eclipse that will cross the continent on Monday afternoon, offering millions a rare opportunity to see the skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Even though Florida isn’t in the sweet spot of totality that will start in Mexico and cross 15 states in the Midwest and Northeast, the Tampa Bay area will get a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring more than 60% of its light.

There are viewing parties to watch the phenomenon safely. Here are more things to know as this rare occurrence kicks off our week.

When will it happen?

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots on Monday will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 27 seconds.

For the Tampa Bay area, things will start changing at 1:43 p.m., when it will look like the moon is first touching the sun’s disc, said St. Petersburg College professor Craig Joseph, who heads SPC’s planetarium. It will peak at 3 p.m.

“Over the next 77 minutes, more and more of the sun will be covered by the moon, with mid-eclipse occurring just before 3 p.m.,” Joseph said, adding that the last of it will end at 4:14 p.m.

Tampa Bay eclipse viewing events

“Here in St. Petersburg, we will see a partial eclipse, with 65% of the sun covered by the moon at eclipse maximum,” said Joseph. “Because only a portion of the sun will be covered, this unique event can be viewed only if special precautions are taken to reduce the sun’s brilliance to safe levels.”

Here are some of the viewing events that will have safe viewers on hand:

• St. Petersburg College will have eclipse glasses and telescopes with solar filters set up between 1:30 and 4 p.m. in the quad area of the St. Petersburg/Gibbs campus, near the southwest entrance of the West St. Petersburg Library at 6700 Eighth Ave. N.
• The Pier 60 Sugar Sand Festival will have a special viewing party on Clearwater Beach. Beachgoers can pick up free eclipse glasses at the Visit St. Pete/Clearwater booth at the festival starting at noon.
• Tampa’s Museum of Science and Industry will host a celebration in its outdoor Science Park on Monday from 1:30-4 p.m. that is included with MOSI admission. They will supply sun-safe solar telescopes with guidance from MOSI astronomers at 4801 E. Fowler Ave. Guests can view the eclipse with glasses that can be purchased for $5.
• Safety Harbor Public Library will have a viewing party at Safety Harbor Waterfront Park from 1:30-4 p.m. with free eclipse glasses available. 105 Veterans Memorial Lane, Safety Harbor.
• Hillsborough County Public libraries will be streaming the eclipse at multiple libraries via NASA TV from 1-3:15 p.m. including at the John F. Germany Public Library, SouthShore Regional Library and Egypt Lake Partnership Library. In addition, the Burton Memorial Library is having a viewing party on its lawn and will be giving out glasses starting at 1 p.m. 302 McLendon St., Plant City.
• Seminole Community Library will have one pair of eclipse glasses per person while supplies last at the St. Petersburg College Seminole Campus, 9200 113th St. N. Bring chairs and blankets to watch the eclipse behind the library.
• Great Explorations Children’s Museum is hosting a Solar Eclipse Day in which they will explore outer space from inside the planetarium. They will first witness the eclipse in person across the street at Crescent Lake Park starting at 2:45 p.m., and it is free to join them. Guests are encouraged to bring eye protection. They will return to the planetarium for a show. Admission is $12, $15 for age 1-17. 1925 Fourth St. N., St. Petersburg.

Don’t use your phone

If you don’t have any safe solar viewers, don’t think you can just hold your phone up to view the eclipse. You could melt the insides of your camera while pointing it at the solar eclipse, phone companies are warning.

There are filters you can purchase, though the sun may be too bright for the camera to correctly capture at the beginning and you may get a lousy shot.

A better plan is to get some safe glasses or viewers that are approved by the American Astronomical Society and experience it with your own eyes instead. Pro tip: Warby Parker stores ( the Tampa Bay area has three ) are giving out free solar eclipse glasses while supplies last.

Get some eclipse food, swag

Many restaurants and companies are offering eclipse deals and specialty flavors.

• Krispy Kreme has a Total Solar Eclipse doughnut available through Monday. It’s dipped in black chocolate icing, adorned with silver sprinkles, piped with a buttercream made with Oreo pieces and features a whole Oreo cookie in the center.
• Sun Chips are taking “limited edition” to a new level with eclipse-themed potato chips that will only be available for 4 minutes and 27 seconds, when the sun is completely blocked in the sky. Starting at 2:33 p.m. on Monday, as the eclipse begins in the U.S., you can go to SunChipsSolarEclipse.com and get a free bag, while supplies last.
• Burger King is offering a buy one-get one deal if you are a member of the Burger King’s Royal Perks loyalty program. You can text ECLIPSE to 251251 on Monday to get a special BOGO Whopper deal, redeemable April 8-15 in the BK app or on BK.com .
• Jeni’s Ice Cream, which has a shop in Tampa’s Sparkman Wharf , has four out-of-this-world flavors including the tropical-flavored Cosmic Bloom, the unnaturally pink Nebula Berry, the grape and currant Purple Star Born and Supermoon, a previously available flavor described as “almost like cereal milk!” The shop is also giving away eclipse glasses with purchase while supplies last.
• Pizza Hut’s Total Eclipse of the Hut deal — aside from winning the contest for best deal name — is offering a large pizza for $12 on Monday. You can either create your own pie with up to 10 toppings or pick from any of the pies on the menu. The offer is good for carryout, dine-in and delivery.
• Cracker Barrel is offering a free side of pancakes with the purchase of any entrée, including kids’ meals. Just ask for eclipse pancakes. Dine in only, one side per order, buttermilk pancakes only.
• Chili’s is offering a free appetizer on Sunday and Monday with an adult entrée if you use the code APPCLIPSE when ordering to-go or in-store to redeem the freebie.
• Sonic has created the Blackout Slush Float. Customers who buy the float will get a free pair of eclipse viewing glasses. The jet-black, “sweet, cotton candy and dragon fruit flavored” drink topped with creamy white soft serve and blue and purple galaxy-themed sprinkles is available through May 5 .

Watch the weather

The Midwest has been rocked by nasty weather this week, and the Tampa Bay area has had its own share of thunderstorms and wind in recent days. On Monday, forecasters say , the Tampa Bay area will be mostly sunny, with a high near 87.

Weather watchers are keeping an eye on a storm system as it tracks through the central U.S. From Missouri and Kansas southward into central and east Texas, it is likely to be cloudy and rainy, according to the Weather Prediction Center , a branch of the National Weather Service.

But even with cloudy skies, those in the path of totality will see a change, according to NASA. For the few minutes during totality when the moon passes in front of the sun, it will be like a switch flipped from day to night. Everything will go dark, temperatures will dip and any light breeze may turn calm, no matter the skies.

©2024 Tampa Bay Times. Visit tampabay.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

What to know about the 2024 solar eclipse in Iowa on Monday

It’s almost time for the partial solar eclipse in Iowa. Are you ready?

This natural phenomenon is certain to be a striking experience for those in the solar eclipse’s path of totality when the moon fully blocks the sun.

Here’s everything you need to know to experience this solar eclipse, including the exact time to view it in your city and where to get proper eyewear to view it.

Hundreds gather for Des Moines watch party

Hundreds of first-timers, veterans of the eclipse and frustrated golfers showed up on a sunny Monday afternoon at the Drake Municipal Observatory on the Waveland Golf Course in Des Moines to watch the eclipse.

"I’m excited to see the moon cover the sun because I’ve never seen it before,” said Julia Ruckle, 10.

Read more of our coverage here: Hundreds gather outside Des Moines observatory for solar eclipse watch party

Iowa State students release their eclipse-viewing balloon

The Iowa State students have successfully launched a high-altitude balloon that will study the effects the total solar eclipse has on atmospheric conditions. The balloon also will livestream the total solar eclipse from Carbondale, Illinois, the closest place to Iowa see totality.

Matthew Nelson, director of Make to Innovate at Iowa State, as he and his students released the balloon from the football field at Southern Illinois University:

"We built this project to assure we'd have enough lift to reach 80,000 feet. From there, we're going to get images of the eclipse at high altitude. We have a 360-degree camera on board, and a second camera that will be used to livestream. We're thrilled to get this done. You look at a project like this as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity." 

As they walked off the field, they were met by a NASA team member who said, "On behalf of NASA, congrats on a job well done."

— Dave Eminian , Peoria Journal Star

Iowa students pack The Pentacrest in Iowa City

Hundreds of students packed The Pentacrest at the University of Iowa, lying in wait as the solar eclipse began on a warm, almost cloudless Monday afternoon in Iowa City.

Students from the UI Physics & Astrology Department provided 2,200 pairs of eclipse glasses to eager locals looking to catch a glimpse of the sky.

Caroline Roberts helped coordinate some of the many resources available downtown today, including glasses, telescopes, pinhole cameras and more.

“We got incredibly lucky,” Roberts said. “About a week ago, weather forecasts were really not looking good.”

Light cloud cover loomed, but Roberts said it would have little effect on eclipse viewing.

“We worked hard but the event kind of made itself,” Robert said. “I just love that people care this much about astronomy and things happening in the skies.”

— Ryan Hansen, Iowa City Press-Citizen

Get the Krispy Kreme eclipse doughnut and other solar eclipse food deals

Sight isn’t the only sense that you can treat today. Give your taste buds an out-of-this-world experience with these special solar eclipse treats or deals.

Big Grove Brewery — Try Gravity of the Situation, a barrel-aged imperial stout created just for the solar eclipse, the brewery announced on social media. Limited draft is available, though it appears the beer has sold out on Big Grove Brewery’s website.

Krispy Kreme — Snag the total solar eclipse doughnut , which is dipped in black chocolate icing, topped with silver sprinkles, piped with buttercream made from Oreo cookies and topped with an Oreo cookie. The decadent treat is available through Monday while supplies last at participating locations.

Sonic Drive-In — Sip on the Blackout Slush Float available at participating locations though May 5, according to USA TODAY. The drink includes flavors of cotton candy and dragon fruit and topped with white soft serve and blue and purple galaxy-themed sprinkles.

Insomnia Cookies — Get a free classic cookie with any $5 purchase all day in store or for delivery, the cookie chain announced on social media. Want your dessert to remind you of the solar eclipse? Order the moon cookie cake, a crescent-shaped cake made with two classic cookie flavors.

Burger King — Craving a burger? Members of Burger King’s Royal Perks loyalty program can text ECLIPSE to 251251 and get a buy-one-get-one-free Whopper through April 15 in the BK app or website, according to USA TODAY. Keep in mind that it’s only one offer per account. 

Iowans begin to gather for eclipse watch parties

The Science Center of Iowa is hosting an eclipse watch party at the Drake Municipal Observatory, 4898 Observatory Road, until 2:30 p.m. Monday. The free family friendly event has telescopes and eclipse safety glasses.

Waves of excited and rapid conversation overlapped each other outside the observatory just after noon Monday as people gathered in the hopes of glimpsing the eclipse on a sunny and windy day.

Des Moines' peak of 83.5% coverage is at 1:58 p.m.

About 200 Story County residents have filled McFarland Park in Ames to watch the partial eclipse. Some families brought their own materials like telescopes and lawn chairs and blankets to watch the eclipse.

Story County Conservation and Ames Area Amateur Astronomers provided solar viewing glasses for the event. Families also are enjoying some eclipse-themed activities to learn about the rare phenomenon like viewing a 3D model and making a DIY pinhole projector.

Will Iowa be in the path of totality for the solar eclipse?

Parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, as well as small parts of Michigan and Tennessee, are expected to be in the path.

Iowa is expected to experience 75% to 90% of the sun covered in the afternoon, meaning it’s still worth your while to step outside and view it.

When is the total solar eclipse?

The total solar eclipse takes place Monday, April 8. Iowa will only experience a partial solar eclipse, in which the moon won’t fully block the sun.

How to watch the total solar eclipse live

Students from Iowa State University will help livestream the total solar eclipse from Carbondale, Illinois, back to campus in Ames.

The students conducted a high-altitude balloon launch experiment before the solar eclipse. The launch is part of the High-Altitude Balloon Experiments in Technology course, which gathers data from the Earth's upper atmosphere.

The students involved in the course are traveling to Carbondale, a nearly eight-hour drive from Ames, to be in the path of totality and use the balloon experiment during the total solar eclipse to study its effects on atmospheric conditions.

The team of students completed their initial launch on March 23 and reached an altitude of around 77,000.

You can watch the livestream from the balloon here:

What time is the solar eclipse on Monday?

Well, it depends on where you live in Iowa. In Des Moines, people will be able to see a partial eclipse from 12:43 p.m. to 3:13 p.m. At 1:58 p.m., 84% of the sun will be obscured by the moon, its peak.

The fun begins just one minute later in Ames at 12:44 p.m. until 3:13 p.m. and in Iowa City, three minutes later from 12:46 p.m. to 3:16 p.m.

What does the word ‘eclipse’ mean?

The word "eclipse" originates from the ancient Greek word “ékleipsis,” which means abandonment. The term was used to describe when one celestial body seems to disappear due to being obscured by another body, specifically the obscuring of the sun or moon.

The term has been adopted into Latin as "eclipsis" and English as “eclipse,” maintaining the same meaning of a temporary obscuring of light from a celestial body.

Superstitions about the solar eclipse

Humans have been gazing up at the sky since the beginning of time, and while there is excitement for the cosmic event, some might have superstitions.

Across ancient cultures, solar eclipses were considered bad omens, which is true of ancient Greece. Eclipses were seen as supernatural events believed to foreshadow disasters or even the deaths of leaders. People thought that the Gods were angry with humans and would often make offerings and sacrifices to appease the gods during an eclipse.

Avoid eating food

In some Buddhist communities, there is a tradition of refraining from eating meat during solar eclipses, an ethical principle of not causing harm to other living things, or Ahimsa. Some Buddhists may observe vegetarian or vegan diets during eclipses as a form of spiritual practice.

Unlucky for pregnant women

In traditional Chinese culture, pregnant women were encouraged to stay indoors during a solar eclipse. It is believed that the negative energy associated with the eclipse can affect the unborn child's health.

How often does a solar eclipse happen?

Solar eclipses “are fairly numerous” and two to four can occur per year, according to NASA. But they’re visible “from such a small area of Earth each time” so it’s rarer to experience one, says NASA.

There are several types of solar eclipses such as the total solar eclipse that some Americans will experience on April 8. An annular solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and Earth but only covers most of the sun, meaning the outer edge of the sun appears like a bright ring around the moon, according to the National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service.

How to drive during the eclipse

According to AAA.com , you should do the following while driving during the eclipse:

• Keep your vehicle’s headlights on.  
• Put the sun visor down to block your view of the sun.  
• Don’t wear eclipse glasses while driving.  
• Don’t try to photograph or video the eclipse while driving.  
• Don’t pull over to the side of the road, highway or interstate to view the eclipse.  
• Exit the roadway and park in a safe area away from traffic to view the eclipse.  
• Be mindful of pedestrians who may be walking around with their eyes on the sky.

More: Solar eclipse 2024: Is it safe to drive during the eclipse? How to stay safe

How to watch the eclipse without glasses

Don’t let your excitement to look up at the sun override safety, Iowans. If you are unable to get a pair of solar eclipse glasses, try viewing the eclipse through these two options using items found in your home. Be aware that neither of these options allow you to look directly at the eclipse.

NASA’s DIY cereal box viewer

Get an empty cereal box and place a white piece of paper or cardboard in the shape of the box’s bottom. Place it inside the box, possibly securing it in place with glue so it doesn’t fall out or move.

Seal the top of the box and then cut rectangles out of each corner of the box, leaving the center of the box’s top intact.

Make sure that center portion is securely closed with tape and not open like you’d have it when you’re pouring a bowl of cereal. Then, cover one of the holes with heavy-duty foil and secure it with tape.

You’ll have one remaining corner still open, and that’s because you’ll use it for viewing.

Use a small nail and push a hole in the foil covered corner.

Lastly, cover the entire box with construction paper, but leave the single-viewing opening and the foil uncovered.

To use it, hold the box with the pin-hole side facing the sun. With your back to the sun, look through the viewing corner you cut out. You’ll be able to see a small image of the sun projected on the white paper you placed inside the box.

Watch this NASA demonstration on how to craft this cereal box projection here:

Another option includes using your kitchen colander . Just stand with your back to the sun and raise your colander, which will project tiny images of the eclipse through the colander’s holes.

More: Forgot to get solar eclipse glasses? Here's how to DIY a viewer with household items.

— Mary Walrath-Holdridge contributed to this article.

Will it be cloudy in Iowa during the solar eclipse?

Des Moines has a 20% chance of cloud cover by 2 p.m. on April 8, according to the National Weather Service .

In Fort Dodge, it's 65%, on par with a forecast the NWS published on social media April 8, with clouds focused in northwest Iowa in the morning and possible showers in the afternoon.

You may have better luck if you're in southeast Iowa, or planning to travel there.

That region will have clearer skies in the afternoon , including during the time frame the solar eclipse is taking place, said NWS meteorologist Alexis Jimenez on Friday.

Will Carbondale, Illinois — the closest spot to Des Moines in the path of totality — have clouds?

In the Weather Prediction Center's updated posted Sunday, there looks to be a stretch of southern Illinois, where Carbondale is located, that will have possible cloudy skies at 2 p.m. Iowa time.

More: Solar eclipse 2024: New interactive map reveals historic weather trends for April 8

What type of eclipse is on Monday? What happens during the solar eclipse?

The United States will experience a total solar eclipse on Monday. That occurs when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, blocking the face of the sun, according to NASA . When you’re in the path of totality, or when the moon’s shadow completely covers the sun, then you experience a total solar eclipse.

During this period of totality, you can see the outermost layer of the sun’s atmosphere, or the corona. The sky will grow dark, and that can confuse nocturnal creatures or lead to birds and insects going quiet, USA TODAY reported .

What glasses do I need to watch the solar eclipse?

You need special eyewear to observe the partial eclipse, otherwise you risk retinal damage due to the light from the sun’s surface visible before or after totality as you stare up. Glasses labeled “ISO” ensure the eyewear’s safety and quality.

Find solar eclipse glasses for free or available for purchase at Warby Parker, Hy-Vee and these other stores .

Are there any solar eclipse watch parties in Iowa?

Yes, there will be several across Iowa , including at the Drake Municipal Observatory or Hoyt Sherman Place in Des Moines, the Pentacrest in Iowa City and McFarland Park in Ames.

When was the last total eclipse in Iowa?

The last total solar eclipse visible across Northern America was on Aug. 21, 2017, a ccording to NASA . Just a sliver of Iowa was in the path of totality then, a 450-acre piece of land in southwestern Iowa . The differences between the 2017 solar eclipse and the one on April 8 include how many more people live in the path of totality in 2024. That, and people viewing the eclipse in Iowa may experience less totality than in 2017 .

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse to be seen in the contiguous United States, meaning all the states except Hawaii and Alaska, will be on Aug. 23, 2044, according to NASA.

What happens to pets and animals during the eclipse?

The topic of animal behavior during an eclipse goes far back. During a total solar eclipse in New England in 1932, anecdotal reports claimed many domestic dogs fell silent during the eclipse, horses clustered together and began shaking their heads and tails with anxiety and several species of wild birds such as crows, gulls and sparrows stopped flying and remained silent and still, according to an article in Animals.

More: 2024 solar eclipse may spark behavioral changes in pets, other animals

There are four things that could to happen to animal behavior during the eclipse, said Erica Cartmill, professor of anthropology, animal behavior and cognitive science:

• Animals won't do anything unusual.
• Animals will do evening behaviors. For example, if a dog is used to a bedtime treat, he may go to the kitchen to wait for it.
• Animals will display signs of increased anxiety such as scratching, yawning, circling and pacing or if they are animals that typically flock together, they will start grouping.
• Animals will display unexpected behavior.

Dog owners shouldn't worry about protecting dogs' eyes from the solar eclipse,  according to the American Kennel Club .

"That’s because dogs don’t naturally look up or stare at the sun," according to Dr. Jerry Klein, the chief veterinary officer for the AKC. “They know enough not to."

Want to see a total solar eclipse somewhere else?

Though the next total solar eclipse to be seen in the contiguous United States will be on Aug. 23, 2044, there are other eclipses for chasers to watch across the world.

"There will be other solar eclipses that will be visible from elsewhere in the world; they happen on a semi-regular cadence," Dr. Jasper Halekas said in an interview with the Press-Citizen in March. "It's not always visible in the U.S. There are people who are eclipse chasers and who are willing to fly halfway around the world to see one of these things, but that's not within most people's means."

Like a storm chaser, an eclipse chaser actively seeks opportunities to witness solar or lunar eclipses in person.

Here are the places to travel to see upcoming eclipses before another will be viewable from the U.S.

August 12, 2026 — The path of totality for this eclipse will cross Greenland, Iceland, the Iberian Peninsula, and North Africa. Eclipse chasers might choose locations like Reykjavik, Iceland, or Tangier, Morocco, for optimal viewing.

August 2, 2027 — A total solar eclipse will occur over much of the central Eastern Hemisphere on Monday, August 2, 2027. The totality path will span northern Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia. Prime viewing destinations include Cairo, Egypt, on the path of totality, and Dubai, United Arab Emirates, to see a partial solar eclipse.

July 22, 2028 — The total solar eclipse on July 22, 2028, will sweep across Australia and New Zealand. Darwin, the capital of Australia's Northern Territory, will be in the path of totality, while other places like Auckland and Queenstown, New Zealand, will have partial views of the cosmic event. 

Paris Barraza, Victoria Reyna-Rodriguez and Jessica Rish are trending and general assignment reporters at the Des Moines Register and Iowa City Press-Citizen.

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Everybody is trying to scare me away from going to St.-Petersburg ! But it's too late, I'm going anyhow !

Are people exaggerating or what ?

One tells me never to part with my coat or else it will part with me...another that they will steal anything from my pockets, even if they are zipped....and never, ever to walk alone at night...and oh yes, that I should dress like a bum at all times, or else they'll steal the coat and all my earthly possessions off my back and that at knife point...no taxi either, they'll kidnap me...and even worse if I take them at the airport...that it's a jungle out there...

And I must have forgotten a few warnings, I'm sure.

Is it all that bad ? Should I be writing my will and wearing my rattiest coat ? Should I hire a bodyguard ? A babysitter ? Should I bring my own lunch to make sure I don't catch avian flu ?

Or are all those people nervous nellies ?

I am not a particularly fearful woman, I've travelled extensively by myself but I've never been forewarned so much about a place, except perhaps for Guatemala where I felt generally safe.

What is your point of view on that?

And how about the weather ? I'll be there end of November?

Hi, Jenshina. I enjoyed reading your post. My family of four went to Russia this summer, and we went throught the same thing before we left. Between all the warnings about going to Russia, and the complication of getting the visa, I almost gave up on the whole thing... and I would have, if we hadn't had friends in Moscow who invited us to come visit.

We had a fabulous trip. We loved St. Petersburg, and Novgorod (which is a three-hour train ride away, a nice side trip for a couple of days)as well. You should be reasonably careful, like in any major city in the world. We were there in the summer, and it was light until the middle of the night-- and anyway we are a middle aged couple who were traveling with teenagers, so I can't report on the safety of the "nightlife" there (or here in L.A. either, for that matter). We did use taxis a few times in the city, to no ill effect, although we arranged a transfer from the train station. I have heard of problems with cabs from the train stations or airport (mostly major overcharging). St. Petersburg is a great walking city, and the main tourist area is very compact-- so make sure you get a hotel that you can walk everywhere from. It should be within a few blocks of the Hermitage (which is within a few blocks of practically everything else).

Russia is definitely a society in transition, and things are not all that settled-- so it is good to be aware, and be alert. But we had a great, and facinating, experience. Russia gets awful press. But it is a great place to visit, and it deserves many more independent travelers from the West than it is currently getting.

A good website for eastern europe that has a good "chapter" on St. Pete is www.inyourpocket.com. The hotel listings are super useful, with pictures and reviews, and direct links to hotel websites.

Welcome to St Petersburg Jenshina

First off you need to consider the source ot the "advice" friends give. Where did they get it or is it from personal experience? If by remote possibility that if by personal incident, was it a general event or something specific?

The two theft risks, moderate at worst, pickpockets and Romy women/children are not around in the winter. In the last 18 months the risk of street thefts by the Romy bands have been almost stopped entirely by deporting them en masse.

Consider this image in your home town. You exit a disco at 3 A.M. dressed in your tiniest little black dance costume, wearing 4" heels and made up for night adventure, walk out the edge of the street and flag down the very first run down car that comes by and hop in to go home. Pretty insane behavior you might think in any big(or small city) in the world. Well, that is exactly what 50,000 girls, couples or men do every night, or any time of the day for transportation. It is safe and normal but it does cost. Getting a amateur taxi is a negotiation but for 50 Rubles($1.50) you get a ride of about 2-3 km depending on your bartering skills. I have less concern walking around cark corners of this city at 4 a.m. than just about any city I have spent time in. No matter what city you compare it to, you will notice there are few if any "bad" neighborhoods that locals avoid.

Ad far as what to wear, ratty or stylish to avoid problems? Stylish by all means, you will fit right in if you wear your nicest clothes, best fur and all the stuff you feel silly and overdressed in back home. Women DRESS here, even the really poor young ladies dress very well and cherrish their Italian shoes, and the latest fashions. In the winter, on the street you see less of it but under their top coats, they are stylish. No one is going to assault you if you look great, it is the norm to try to look great here.

Weather? Snow, ice and cold, you are used to that and have the clothes for it. It is not as cold as people say since it has its weather moderated by sitting on the edge of the Gulf of Finland. It is get down to -10C at least once during your stay but average 0. We had our first snow yesterday, it was beautiful, about 10 cm. But warmed up at night and is melting now and Saturday is supposed to be +10C and sunny. So we are hoping the splendid mild fall continues.

Women are pretty safe in St Petersburg year round but particularly in the winter when everybody leaves everybody else alone. But go into a club, bar, cafe, museum, theater or anywhere people are socializing and it is VERY easy to meet strangers who love to practice their language skills. You will hear English spoken by groups of kids student age all over the city because there are thousands of foreign students here and the common language for them is English. Walking on Nevsky prospekt is like listening to the United Nations coffee shop. Or if you are lonely for Canadian company, there is moderately sized ex-pat community. Try one of the popular hangouts for ex-pats such as City Bar/Cafe close to the Hermitage or Shamrock, a real feeling Irish pub with live Irish music almost every night, located across the street from the famous Mariinsky Theater.

The biggest problem is figuring out how to tell the boss that you are extending your trip because you are having too much fun. It is one of those big cities that feels like small accessable neighborhoods and surprisingly not intimidating once you learn a few landmarks. Before you come, spend an hour learning the Cyrillic alphabet, you will be much more independent if you do, suddenly you can know what street you are on or read many store signs which are just English words when sounded out but written in Cyrillic.

If you have specific questions such as what to do, who to talk to, where to stay just shout (or write) here and I will be happy to fill you in on the lastest.

Have a great visit.

I hate to write what I am going to write now, but we just had the MOST unpleasant experience:

We arrived in St. P this afternoon, checked in at our hotel (I am here for business and my boyfriend joined me, so we are staying at a very nice hotel just next to the Hermitage) and went out for dinner. at around 11 pm, we decided to take a cab home, and asked to be dropped off next to the Hermitage Place, since we intended to walk the 3 min to our hotel. Soon enough we were stopped by two police men in uniform swinging their plastic battons. They asked for our papers, we told them they were at the hotel, so they asked for our guest card. We never got one, and showed him our key card but this was - obviously - not what they wanted. Even though it was clear that what they wanted was money, I tried to tell him that we stay just around the corner and that we could show him there any documentation he would like to see, if he comes with us. He became VERY unfriendly at this pont. To cut a long story short, he told my boyfriend to go aside with him, asked him if we were cold and if we had time to stand around here for another 2 or 3 hours, that we were stopped without papers and would therefore have to pay a high fee. My boyfriend gave him 1000 Rbl, told him that he thinks that's a very high fee and so at the end they let us go.

Now, it's less about the money, it's about the really bad feeling we have now. I have traved all my life and quite around the world for pleasure as well as for work. I looked very much forward to coming to St.P and didn't really worry about security. In addition, I read and belived the posts on this forum saying that St. Petersburg was safe. So I didn't expect at all that such a thing to happen. I would expect such a thing to happen in a dark street, but not in the middle of a tourist site and from police men? Or am I beeing very naive??

Also, any one with any input on what's the best way to react/act in such a situation?

I am sorry to hear of your intimidation. Most likely it was not police, there have been random reports of "police", actually security guards masquarading as police, sometimes stopping people and trying to intimidate them into giving them money. I don't remember a reported case of anyone being hurt or directly threatened and most people simply tell them to take them in..after their show their ID cards badges and call their bluff, but it can be intimidating. Be sure to report this to the real police and the hotel management. There is a special police office at 14 Sadova ul. near Gostiny Dvor for tourist complaints. They have English speaking officers and printed forms.

I hope the rest of your stay is better, I am sure it will be. If you need some advice or suggestions call on the offcie phone at 312-6881 or email for my cell phone number.

I was in St. Petersburg last year for the first time in 30 years. Even the guidebooks seemed to try to put travellers off! I suppose for people like me it was good to be aware that times have changed. 30 years ago Leningrad was a VERY safe place to visit, much more so than British cities. Things are different now - but no more so than anywhere else.

We travelled everywhere by Metro (there were just 2 of us and all the Russians we met seemed pleased/surprised to see people travelling outside the tourist herd) and had very little trouble: one drunken guy demanding money just outside our hotel - but he didn't follow us in, hotel security was excellent; also I became very nervous in a crowd of 'gypsy' women and children - my companion wasn't bothered, he'd never come acros the problem before but I've been robbed by them in Rome, so felt a major panic but emerged unscathed.

I kept my bag close to me on the escalators, as I would anywhere, that was my only security precaution.

Have a great time!

I am sorry that Mevie had such an unpleasant experience. I hope it did not ruin their trip to this wonderful city. There is a lesson here, though-- when you are travelling anywhere out of your familiar environment, it is worthwhile to "study up" a bit on your destination. And one of the first things anyone travelling to Russia should learn, if they consult a guidebook, is that you should ALWAYS have your passport, and your "registration" papers (or a copy of them) with you when you leave the hotel. Preferably carried in a money belt around your waist, inside your clothes, or in a FRONT pocket.

Hi! I live in Moscow. So Mevie`s problem is very well known for me. In fact in Russia very strict ID rules and in fact police men are commonly unfriendly. I never leave my home without ID. But you can easely avoid this problem if you will keep your passport in your pocket, or avoid police:))

What about money: It is true that in russia a lot of stupid rules, but good point is that money makes magic:) Would you stopped in diferent contry because of rules breaking, you will have much more problems than just money! P.S. 1000 rubles is too much, i had once such bad situation, so i gave 200 rubles. Dont be affraid to give them less than they ask. And remember, than you ussualy have deal with police in Russia, It IS mostly question of money.

But i can say that in S.Petersburg situation is better than in Moscow. Moscow goverment trying to close city even for other Russians.

I know very good agancy that help travellers to have no problem in Moscow, but it costs money:(

As i can resume Russia is not more dangerous than Italy for example:) or London , where i have been pickpocketed.

2 Rules you should remember. Police in Russia is not for help and than you speak english you have 2-3times higher prices. Have a good trip:)

Provet Grisha!

nice comments about Moscow..its so true...people have to remember the rules ..carry your documents at all times..simple!!

I love Russia and Moscow ..and St.Peterburg..i can not wait to return.

enjoy your country and all it has to offer

On the question of carrying documentation, would a colour photocopy of the photograph page of your passport be acceptable, or a UK photo driving license card? I'm not entirely convinced I'd be a 100% happy carrying my actual passport around.

I carry my passport at all times, it is just the way everybody does it. Locals have a domestic passport which serves the same purpose as a photo drivers license in the US or UK.

A passport is not a target for theft, it is not much good for anything when an original can be purchased for a moderate sum that does not require modification to use. My only problem with the passport is on hot humid days it gets a little damp when carried in a back pocket. That is not a problem here but when I go to the US or Finland they inspect it for 30 minutes or so saying it is altered or damaged.

Every metro has little kiosks that sell passport covers that are leather and look really nice. Uusally they are 70-100 Rubles and make a nice conversation piece once back home. That protects them properly. All Russians carry their passports in these covers.

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How much of the eclipse will be visible in Florida? When will the peak time be?

The Great American Eclipse happens this afternoon .

Florida isn't in the path of totality, which means we won't see the moon completely block the sun, but we will see a partial eclipse where the moon blocks a certain percentage of the sun. How much depends on where you are in the state.

➤ Live updates: Eclipse day in Florida

Residents in the Panhandle will see a larger percentage of the sun covered than those farther south.

Here's your guide to what you'll be able to see and how much across Florida.

Will you be able to see the eclipse in Florida?

Yes, but ...

Thirteen states across the U.S. from Texas to Maine are in the path of totality.

Florida is not one of them.

In Florida, residents will see a partial eclipse where the moon doesn't completely block the sun but instead blocks only a percentage of it. How much depends on where you are in the state.

The farther north you are, the larger the percentage of the sun will be blocked by the moon.

How much of the eclipse will Florida see? Enter ZIP code for answers

As we've said earlier, how much of the sun will be blocked by the moon depends on where you are in the state.

Here's the maximum coverage from several locations around Florida:

• Pensacola: 76%
• Tallahassee: 70%
• Jacksonville: 64%
• Daytona Beach: 59%
• Melbourne: 54%
• Port St. Lucie: 51%
• West Palm Beach: 49%
• Naples: 50%
• Fort Myers: 52%
• Sarasota: 56%

Don't see your city mentioned? Enter your ZIP code to see:

• When the eclipse starts at your location
• What the maximum coverage will be
• What time maximum coverage will occur
• When the eclipse ends at your location
• Chances for clear skies based on historical averages for April 8

What is the peak time to see the eclipse in Florida?

The total eclipse will begin in Mexico at about 11:07 a.m. PDT, before crossing into Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT. It will end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT.

Roughly speaking, in Florida the peak of the partial eclipse will start about 1:55 p.m. CDT in Pensacola and at 3:02 p.m. EDT on Miami Beach.

Here's a look at the peak time around the state, which is the time the maximum coverage of the sun is expected:

• Pensacola: 1:55 p.m. CDT
• Tallahassee: 3 p.m. EDT
• Jacksonville: 3:05 p.m. EDT
• Daytona Beach: 3:04 p.m. EDT
• Melbourne: 3:04 p.m. EDT
• Port St. Lucie: 3:03 p.m. EDT
• West Palm Beach: 3:03 p.m. EDT
• Naples: 2:59 p.m. EDT
• Fort Myers: 2:59 p.m. EDT
• Sarasota: 2:59 p.m. EDT

Don't see your city mentioned? Click on any circle in the map to see:

• Time of peak coverage
• Maximum coverage percentage
• Chances of clear skies based on historical averages

Is it safe to look at a total solar eclipse? What to know about glasses, proper viewing

If you have your eyewear to take in monday's eclipse, here are some last-minute things to consider to ensure you're good to go..

The much-anticipated solar eclipse will finally enshroud thousands of miles of North America today in its long, narrow shadow. By now, those who plan to witness it should have their plans in place .

Travel has been completed. Schedules have been coordinated around the anticipated moment of totality. And proper eyewear is, of course, in your possession. Right?

We at USA TODAY have published no shortage of articles guiding you away from scam eclipse glasses and to the safest, most reliable options – some of which were even free. But if you need a last-minute refresher – or a crash course to catch you up on a topic you entirely missed – we're happy to oblige.

If you don't have your eclipse glasses by now, it may be too late. But some vendors, including Warby Parker , and even public libraries, have offered eclipse glasses giveaways , so be sure to check your local area before the historic event rolls into town.

And if you do have your eyewear to take in Monday's eclipse – the last one of these incredible astronomical events in North America for 20 years – here are some last-minute things to consider to ensure you're in good shape.

Solar eclipse 2024 live updates: See latest weather forecast, what time it hits your area

Can you go blind by looking at the solar eclipse?

Staring at the sun is  unlikely to completely blind you , but its powerful rays can still burn and  damage your retinas if you don't take proper safety precautions to view  solar eclipses .

That's why eyewear is recommended if you plan to look up at the sun Monday to witness the solar eclipse, which most of the country will be able to experience in some way.

In the face of the sun's powerful rays, regular sunglasses made of cheap plastic and polycarbonate material just aren't going to cut it. Astronomers and other experts instead emphasize that skygazers intent on viewing the upcoming total solar eclipse do so with  specialized eyewear  crafted to  protect their sensitive retinas  from permanent damage.

Even viewing any part of the bright sun through camera lenses, binoculars and telescopes without a specialized solar filter  could instantly cause severe eye injury , according to the American Astronomical Society.

Often made with a polyester film coated in aluminum, the glasses are highly specialized . Compared to regular sunglasses, proper eclipse glasses are 100,000 times darker to block nearly all visible, infrared and ultraviolet light and protect our sensitive retinas when looking skyward.

As another point of safety, don't look up while driving , please.

How to know when it's safe to view the eclipse without glasses

A  total solar eclipse  offers the unique opportunity for skygazers to  witness the spectacular astral display  with the naked eye – but only when the time is right.

Hundreds of cities in  13 states are along the path of totality  for the eclipse, which will move across North America from southwest to northeast . When the moon moves completely in front of the sun and blocks its light for a brief period of time, you'll know it's safe to fully take in the dazzling display.

That moment is what is called "totality," whereby uncharacteristic darkness falls and all but the sun's outermost layer known as its corona makes a rare appearance to us here on Earth,  according to NASA .

How to make sure your eclipse glasses aren't fake

In the rush to acquire  some coveted eclipse glasses  before April 8 , you may have inadvertently fallen victim to the  fakes and imitators proliferating online retailers .

While plenty of legitimate certified eyewear was widely available – and may still be – less-scrupulous manufacturers try all sorts of methods and tricks to get your attention and make you believe the product you're about to buy is the real deal.

For instance, many vendors began making the grand (and entirely made-up) claim that their products are endorsed by NASA.

As the space agency  reiterated to USA TODAY , NASA highly recommended that skygazers get a pair of certified eclipse glasses before the total solar eclipse  charts a 115-mile-wide path of totality  blanketing much of North America in  uncharacteristic darkness . But it does not approve  any particular brand of solar viewers, despite what many vendors may claim.

The responsibility of guiding American consumers to the safest eclipse glasses is largely left to the American Astronomical Society.

The organization maintains  a curated list of approved vendors  of solar eclipse glasses that it updated to give priority to North American manufacturers ahead of the total solar eclipse. Products you purchase that are listed on that site are guaranteed to be  in compliance with  the highest international safety standards.

Those standards are set by the International Organization for Standardization, which only vouches for solar eclipse glasses that are dark and strong enough to filter out a certain amount of the sun's harmful light.

The astronomical society also provides some  helpful tips  for how to spot counterfeit glasses.

No eclipse glasses? Welding lenses, pinhole projectors among alternative viewers

While certified solar eclipse glasses are the preferred method for viewing the eclipse, alternative methods do exist that don't necessarily sacrifice one's safety.

Many people, particularly blue-collar workers, may be tempted to turn to those welding lenses they have sitting in their workshop.

But beware: The most common welding goggles and helmets aren't typically strong enough to adequately withstand the sun's powerful rays and protect your vulnerable eyes.

Any welding lenses weaker than a Shade 12 filter – a number that indicates the level of protection offered – just aren't going to cut it when it comes to gazing upward in anticipation of the moon blocking all but the sun's outermost layer.

It's also not too late to buy some welding lenses, which Tractor Supply is promoting for sale at its 282 stores along the path of totality as a viable option for viewing the eclipse.

Another simple method is to create your own pinhole projector to project the sun onto a nearby surface. The American Astronomical Society offers helpful  instructions  to set them up.

And one final note: As you make your eclipse-viewing plans,  these interactive maps  should help you chart the time and duration for when totality would occur in cities along the path.

Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at [email protected]

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Solar eclipse, what you need to know to watch monday's total solar eclipse.

The NPR Network

A stunning celestial event is visible across the country Monday, when the moon crosses directly in front of the sun: a total solar eclipse. For those in the path of totality, there will be a few brief moments when the moon completely covers the sun and the world becomes dark.

Traveling for totality? Skip ahead.

This will be the last chance to catch a total solar eclipse in the continental U.S. for about 20 years, so here's what you need to know to safely enjoy!

When is the eclipse?

April 8, 2024 there will be a total solar eclipse that crosses from the Pacific coast of Mexico through the United States.

What is totality and why it matters

According to NASA , totality will start around 11:07 a.m. PDT/1:07 EDT in Mexico and leave Maine at around 1:30 pm PDT/3:30 pm EDT.

Here's what time the eclipse will be visible in your region

Check out this table for when the partial eclipse and totality are visible in each region or check by zip code here.

A partial solar eclipse will be visible across the contiguous United States, so even if you're not directly in the path, you should be able to see something special, weather permitting.

Unable to get to totality? We'll be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you can't see it in real time.

Where to see totality?

More than 30 million people live in the path of totality for Monday's eclipse, and many more in nearby areas.

Here's what we know about Monday's weather forecast.

Why totality matters

As NPR's Neil Greenfieldboyce explains , "During a total eclipse, the sky darkens suddenly and dramatically . The temperature drops. Stars come out. Beautiful colors appear around the horizon. And the once-familiar sun becomes a black void in the sky surrounded by the glowing corona — that's the ghostly white ring that is the sun's atmosphere."

Eclipse Science

For april's eclipse, going from 'meh' to 'omg' might mean just driving across town.

A partial eclipse, while still a fun experience, is hardly as dramatic. Those with a view of the partial eclipse will see crescent-shaped shadows like those seen here in 2017.

How to watch safely

If you plan to look directly at the eclipse (partial or totality), you're going to need eclipse glasses handy because looking directly at the sun without proper protection ( traditional sunglasses don't count! ) can be harmful to your eyes.

The perfect celestial soundtrack to the total solar eclipse

As NPR's Joe Hernandez explains, "Proper eye protection must be worn throughout a total solar eclipse — except for the roughly 3 1/2 to 4 minutes when the moon fully obscures the sun, a brief period known as 'totality.' (You will need to take your glasses off during totality to actually see it.)"

If you don't have access to eclipse glasses, you can get crafty with things you have around the house ( like some of us did back in 2017!) More on that here.

Traveling for totality?

The celestial event is driving a ton of domestic travel to the path of totality. If you're headed out of town to view the eclipse, here are some NPR Network resources for areas in the path of totality:

Texas The path of totality crosses through the Lone Star State, with some areas expecting a possible influx of visitors in the hundreds of thousands to catch prime viewing. Our member stations across the state have gathered local resources to help you navigate the region and the eclipse!

• San Antonio: Check out the latest from Texas Public Radio
• Dallas: Explore KERA's coverage for the latest
• Austin: Head to KUT for the best local resources

Arkansas The eclipse will be cutting through the state, putting Little Rock in the path of totality. Check out Little Rock Public Radio for local resources.

The southwestern edge of the state will be well-positioned to witness the total solar eclipse this year. Kentucky Public Radio is covering the eclipse throughout the region, from Kentuckiana eclipse mania to the University of Louisville's free class about the celestial event. Keep an eye on WKMS for the latest local updates.

Missouri The southeastern corner of the state will be in the path of totality, crossing across towns like Whitewater and Ste. Genevieve. Head to St. Louis Public Radio for local coverage and resources. Illinois Carbondale seems to have won the eclipse lottery, being in the path of totality both in 2017 and for this year's eclipse . For resources from across the state, check out Illinois Public Media .

Indiana A huge portion of the state will be within the path of totality, giving cities across Indiana, including Bloomington and Indianapolis, prime viewing of the eclipse.

• Bloomington: Check out Indiana Public Media
• Indianapolis: Head to WFYI for the latest
• Fort Wayne: Just north of the path of totality, WBOI has resources for the Allen County area

Ohio The Buckeye State is getting bisected by this year's path of totality, plunging a number of the state's most populous areas into darkness for a few minutes on Monday.

• Cleveland: Head to Ideastream Public Media for the latest.
• Columbus: With the capital city just south of totality, head to WOSU for regional resources.
• Cincinnati: Totality will just miss the border town. Here are some tips from WVXU on how to navigate the eclipse in the region.

Pennsylvania Only the northwestern-most corner of the state will catch totality, with views from the lakeside in Erie being particularly well-positioned for a stunning viewing experience. WESA has more from across the region.

Plan to watch the eclipse from a wild mountain summit? Be ready for harsh conditions

New York Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse and Plattsburgh will fall under the path of totality on Monday. If you're planning to travel to the region for the best views, here are some local resources to stay safe and informed:

• Buffalo: Head to WBFO for the latest
• Syracuse: WAER has more on plans in the Salt City
• North Country: NCPR has the latest from across the region, as well as information on local viewing events to check out

Vermont The Green Mountain State will see totality across its most populous region, including Burlington and Montpelier, as well as the Northeast Kingdom on the Canadian border. Vermont Public has everything you need to know to navigate your time in the region to enjoy the eclipse safely. New Hampshire The northernmost region of the Granite State will be in the path of totality, providing prime viewing to those in Coos County. NHPR has info on local events, travel updates as well as special coverage with New Hampshire Public Television. Maine The last state in the path of totality in the U.S., much of Northern Maine will be positioned for prime viewing. The rural region is preparing for an influx of visitors, and safety officials are encouraging visitors and locals alike to be prepared. Maine Public will be covering the eclipse and has everything you need to know to navigate the region safely.

How to document the eclipse safely

With the ease of cell photography , it can be tempting to reach for your phone to document the eclipse and the moments of totality, but make sure to do so safely.

As NPR's Scott Neuman explains , "For starters, you'll need to wear eclipse glasses or similar protective eye gear while aiming your camera or even just observing the eclipse."

Feeling ambitious? Here are a few more tips.

Or if you're not inclined to capture the moment visually, you lean into some other forms of creative expression. Indiana, for example, has named Linda Neal Reising the official poet in the state for this year's eclipse.

As former NPR reporter and eclipse superfan David Baron shared with Life Kit , viewing totality "[is] like you've left the solar system and are looking back from some other world."

So consider focusing on being present in the moment to enjoy the celestial spectacle.

More resources to enjoy the eclipse

• Sharing the eclipse with tiny humans? Check out these kid-friendly total solar eclipse learning guides from Vermont Public's But Why, and this great explainer from KERA Kids on the difference between a solar and a lunar eclipse.
• Want to see how a solar eclipse alters colors? Wear red and green on Monday
• Plan to wander into the wild for the best view? Here are some tips from outdoor experts.
• Tips from Bill Nye on the best ways to enjoy the eclipse.

NPR will be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you're unable to get out and see it in real time. NPR's Emily Alfin Johnson compiled these resources.

• 2024 eclipse