News › Visa-free Russia

People that have a desire to visit Russia often face the problem of obtaining Russian visa. Of course it is possible to get it but over the last few years this has become more and more expensive. For US citizen it may cost something between $250-$300 and even more.

But what if you don't plan to stay in Russia for long and just want to take a first glance at major highlights? What if you you want to make your Russia visit to be a part of your European journey? The solution is Visa-free Russia regulations for those who come to St Petersburg on board of cruise or ferry.

So basically you have two options:

Visa free Russia1. Take a cruise that has St Petersburg as one of ports of call. Due to its unique visa-free status over the past few years St Petersburg has become the most attractive among all ports of Northern Europe. All major cruise companies include St Petersburg in their itineraries as a true highlight. It's the only port where cruise ships usually choose to stay longer than 1 day taking the opportunity of visa-free stay up to 72 hours.

We always advise to choose the ship that stays in St Petersburg for 3 days / 2 nights - this way you will be able to see the most of the city and its environs and also take a one-day trip to Moscow. It's a law that you have to stay at your ship during the night (no hotels). See Visa Free St Petersburg and disembarkation briefing for details.

Ferry Helsinki to St Petersburg2. Hop on on of those ferries that go to St Petersburg from Helsinki or Stockholm. This line is being operated by St Peter Line.

Overnight voyage from Helsinki on Princess Maria ferry would be the cheapest choice for you. Make sure you book your St Petersburg Shore excursions with MaxiBaltTours when you plan your trip. You can stay at the hotel for maximum 2 nights and HAVE to go out of the country by ferry after that. We can suggest nice and affordable hotel right in St Petersburg downtown - 3 Mosta.

Please Check with us about special rates. Again, your stay should be not longer than 72 hours.

More information about Russian visa free regulations for cruise and ferry passengers

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Optional tours
Russian Folk Show

Russian Folk Show

When you are in St. Petersburg, ballet is one of the things you can't miss! This is where the Russian Composer Peter Tchaikovsky wrote Swan Lake, one of the most beautiful and dramatic ballets of all times. Ballet here is always accompanied by an orchestra and you can be guaranteed that you will see a high quality performance.

Duration: 2 hours
Russian Ballet

Russian Ballet

If you are looking for a great way to relax after a day of sightseeing and want to get to know the Russian culture and mind, then this show is definitely for you. You will see Russian & Cossack dancing, listen to famous national instruments while beautiful voices sing of the joyful traditions in the Russian countryside. Feel yourself Russian!

Duration: 2-3 hours
Canal Tour

Canal Tour

What can be more impressive than seeing the beauty of St. Petersburg leisurely from the water? The city is criss-crossed with small rivers and canals which make the city look like Venice or Amsterdam. Our comfortable boat will take you past the granite embankments along the main waterways of St. Petersburg.

Duration: 1 hour