Petersburg City Guide: Best Places to Visit, Stay, and Explore Petersburg Travel Guide: History, Attractions, and Hidden Gems
Where is St. Petersburg on the map? St. Petersburg, officially Saint Petersburg, is a city in western Russia, located on the Neva River at the head of the Gulf of Finland on the Baltic Sea. It is the second-largest city in Russia after Moscow, with a population of over 5 million people.
Editor’s Notes: “Where is St. Petersburg on the map” has been published today to give a quick overview about where is St. Petersburg on the map and importance or benefits of St. Petersburg.
Our team has done some analysis, digging information, and put together this where is St. Petersburg on the map guide to help you make the right decision.
Key takeaways:
| St. Petersburg | Moscow | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 5 million | 12 million |
| Area | 1,439 square kilometers (555 square miles) | 2,561 square kilometers (990 square miles) |
| Founded | 1703 | 1147 |
Main article topics:
- History of St. Petersburg
- Geography of St. Petersburg
- Climate of St. Petersburg
- Demographics of St. Petersburg
- Economy of St. Petersburg
- Culture of St. Petersburg
- Transportation in St. Petersburg
- Tourism in St. Petersburg
Where is St. Petersburg on the map?
St. Petersburg, officially Saint Petersburg, is a city in western Russia, located on the Neva River at the head of the Gulf of Finland on the Baltic Sea. It is the second-largest city in Russia after Moscow, with a population of over 5 million people.
The following are 11 key aspects of St. Petersburg’s location:
- Country: Russia
- Federal district: Northwestern Federal District
- Economic region: Northern Economic Region
- Latitude: 59.9343 N
- Longitude: 30.3351 E
- Altitude: 16 meters (52 feet)
- Area: 1,439 square kilometers (555 square miles)
- Population: 5,383,890 (2021)
- Climate: Humid continental
- Time zone: UTC+3 (Moscow Time)
- International airport: Pulkovo Airport (LED)
These aspects provide a comprehensive overview of St. Petersburg’s location. The city is located in northwestern Russia, on the Baltic Sea coast. It is the second-largest city in Russia and has a population of over 5 million people. St. Petersburg has a humid continental climate and is served by Pulkovo Airport (LED).
Country
The fact that St. Petersburg is located in Russia is a key aspect of its identity and development. Russia is the largest country in the world, spanning eleven time zones and encompassing a vast array of cultures and landscapes. St. Petersburg is situated in the northwestern part of the country, on the Baltic Sea coast. It is the second-largest city in Russia and a major cultural, economic, and political center.
Russia’s size and diversity have had a profound impact on St. Petersburg. The city has been shaped by the country’s history, culture, and politics. For example, St. Petersburg was founded by Peter the Great in 1703 as a window to the West. The city was designed to be a modern, European-style capital, and it quickly became a center of trade, culture, and diplomacy.
Today, St. Petersburg remains a major city in Russia and a popular destination for tourists from around the world. The city is home to many world-renowned museums, theaters, and historical sites. It is also a major center of education and research.
The following table provides a more detailed look at the connection between “Country: Russia” and “where is st petersburg on the map”:
| Country | St. Petersburg |
|---|---|
| Size | Russia is the largest country in the world, spanning eleven time zones and encompassing a vast array of cultures and landscapes. |
| Location | St. Petersburg is situated in the northwestern part of Russia, on the Baltic Sea coast. |
| History | Russia’s history has had a profound impact on St. Petersburg. The city was founded by Peter the Great in 1703 as a window to the West. |
| Culture | St. Petersburg is a major cultural center in Russia. The city is home to many world-renowned museums, theaters, and historical sites. |
| Economy | St. Petersburg is a major economic center in Russia. The city is home to many large businesses and industries. |
Federal district
St. Petersburg is located in the Northwestern Federal District of Russia. This federal district is one of the eleven federal districts of Russia, and it comprises eleven constituent entities, including the city of St. Petersburg and the Leningrad Oblast. The Northwestern Federal District is the most populous federal district in Russia, with a population of over 13 million people.
- Geography: The Northwestern Federal District is located in the northwestern part of Russia, and it borders Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Belarus, and Ukraine. The district is also home to the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Finland.
- Economy: The Northwestern Federal District is one of the most economically developed regions in Russia. The district is home to many large businesses and industries, including shipbuilding, manufacturing, and tourism.
- Culture: The Northwestern Federal District is a major cultural center in Russia. The district is home to many world-renowned museums, theaters, and historical sites.
- Transportation: The Northwestern Federal District is well-connected to the rest of Russia and the world. The district is home to several major airports, including Pulkovo Airport in St. Petersburg, and it is also served by a network of roads and railways.
The Northwestern Federal District plays an important role in the development of St. Petersburg. The district provides the city with access to the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Finland, which are important for trade and transportation. The district is also home to many large businesses and industries, which provide jobs and economic opportunities for the city’s residents. Additionally, the district is a major cultural center, which attracts tourists from around the world.
Economic region
St. Petersburg is located in the Northern Economic Region of Russia. This economic region is one of the twelve economic regions of Russia, and it comprises eleven constituent entities, including the city of St. Petersburg and the Leningrad Oblast. The Northern Economic Region is the most economically developed region in Russia, and it accounts for over 20% of the country’s GDP.
The Northern Economic Region is home to many large businesses and industries, including shipbuilding, manufacturing, and tourism. The region is also a major center of education and research. St. Petersburg is the economic center of the Northern Economic Region, and it is home to many of the region’s largest businesses and industries.
The Northern Economic Region plays an important role in the development of St. Petersburg. The region provides the city with access to resources, markets, and labor. The region also provides the city with a skilled workforce and a high standard of living.
The following table provides a more detailed look at the connection between “Economic region: Northern Economic Region” and “where is st petersburg on the map”:
| Economic region | St. Petersburg |
|---|---|
| GDP | The Northern Economic Region is the most economically developed region in Russia, and it accounts for over 20% of the country’s GDP. |
| Industries | The Northern Economic Region is home to many large businesses and industries, including shipbuilding, manufacturing, and tourism. |
| Workforce | The Northern Economic Region provides St. Petersburg with a skilled workforce and a high standard of living. |
Latitude
The latitude of St. Petersburg is 59.9343 N. This means that the city is located in the Northern Hemisphere, just south of the 60th parallel. St. Petersburg’s latitude has a significant impact on the city’s climate, daylight hours, and overall geography.
- Climate: St. Petersburg’s latitude places it in a humid continental climate zone. This climate is characterized by warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The average temperature in St. Petersburg is 4.2C (39.6F), and the city receives an average of 635 millimeters (25 inches) of precipitation per year.
- Daylight hours: St. Petersburg’s latitude also affects the city’s daylight hours. In the summer, the city experiences long days with up to 18 hours of sunlight. In the winter, the days are much shorter, with only about 6 hours of sunlight.
- Geography: St. Petersburg’s latitude has also influenced the city’s geography. The city is located on the Neva River, which flows into the Gulf of Finland. The Gulf of Finland is part of the Baltic Sea, which is a major shipping route. St. Petersburg’s location on the Gulf of Finland has made it a major port city.
In conclusion, the latitude of St. Petersburg has a significant impact on the city’s climate, daylight hours, and geography. The city’s location in the Northern Hemisphere, just south of the 60th parallel, gives it a humid continental climate, long summer days, and short winter days. St. Petersburg’s location on the Neva River and the Gulf of Finland has also made it a major port city.
Longitude
The longitude of St. Petersburg is 30.3351 E. This means that the city is located east of the Prime Meridian, which is the reference line for longitude. St. Petersburg’s longitude has a significant impact on the city’s time zone and its relationship with other cities around the world.
St. Petersburg is located in the Eastern European Time Zone (EET), which is two hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). This means that when it is noon in St. Petersburg, it is 10:00 AM in London and 5:00 AM in New York City.
St. Petersburg’s longitude also affects its relationship with other cities around the world. For example, St. Petersburg is located approximately 600 kilometers (373 miles) east of Helsinki, Finland, and 700 kilometers (435 miles) west of Moscow, Russia.
In conclusion, the longitude of St. Petersburg has a significant impact on the city’s time zone and its relationship with other cities around the world.
The following table provides a more detailed look at the connection between “Longitude: 30.3351 E” and “where is st petersburg on the map”:
| Longitude | St. Petersburg |
|---|---|
| Definition | Longitude is the angular distance east or west of the Prime Meridian, which is the reference line for longitude. |
| St. Petersburg’s longitude | 30.3351 E |
| Time zone | Eastern European Time Zone (EET), which is two hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). |
| Relationship with other cities | St. Petersburg is located approximately 600 kilometers (373 miles) east of Helsinki, Finland, and 700 kilometers (435 miles) west of Moscow, Russia. |
Altitude
The altitude of St. Petersburg is 16 meters (52 feet). This means that the city is located at a relatively low elevation above sea level. St. Petersburg’s altitude has a significant impact on the city’s climate, geography, and economy.
St. Petersburg’s low altitude makes it susceptible to flooding. The city is located on the Neva River, which flows into the Gulf of Finland. The Gulf of Finland is part of the Baltic Sea, which is a major shipping route. When the water level in the Baltic Sea rises, it can cause flooding in St. Petersburg. To protect the city from flooding, a system of dams and canals has been built. These dams and canals help to control the water level in the Neva River and prevent flooding in the city.
St. Petersburg’s altitude also affects the city’s climate. The city’s low elevation means that it is exposed to cold air from the north and west. This can make the winters in St. Petersburg very cold. The average temperature in January is -6C (21F). However, the summers in St. Petersburg are relatively warm, with an average temperature of 18C (64F). The city’s low altitude also means that it is prone to fog. Fog is most common in the spring and fall, when the air is cool and humid.
St. Petersburg’s altitude has a significant impact on the city’s economy. The city’s location on the Neva River and the Gulf of Finland has made it a major port city. The port of St. Petersburg is one of the largest in Russia, and it handles a large volume of cargo. The city’s low altitude makes it easy for ships to enter and leave the port. Additionally, the city’s altitude makes it a good location for shipbuilding and other maritime industries.
In conclusion, the altitude of St. Petersburg has a significant impact on the city’s climate, geography, and economy. The city’s low altitude makes it susceptible to flooding, but it also makes it a good location for shipping and other maritime industries.
The following table provides a more detailed look at the connection between “Altitude: 16 meters (52 feet)” and “where is st petersburg on the map”:
| Altitude | St. Petersburg |
|---|---|
| Definition | Altitude is the vertical distance above or below a fixed level, usually sea level. |
| St. Petersburg’s altitude | 16 meters (52 feet) |
| Climate | St. Petersburg’s low altitude makes it susceptible to cold air from the north and west, resulting in cold winters and relatively warm summers. |
| Geography | St. Petersburg’s location on the Neva River and the Gulf of Finland, combined with its low altitude, makes it prone to flooding. |
| Economy | St. Petersburg’s low altitude makes it a good location for shipping and other maritime industries. |
Area
The area of St. Petersburg is 1,439 square kilometers (555 square miles). This makes it the fourth-largest city in Russia by area, after Moscow, Nizhny Novgorod, and Kazan. St. Petersburg’s large area is a significant factor in its status as a major economic, cultural, and political center.
The city’s large area has allowed it to accommodate a diverse range of industries and businesses. St. Petersburg is a major center for shipbuilding, manufacturing, and tourism. The city is also home to a large number of educational and research institutions, including St. Petersburg State University, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Russia.
St. Petersburg’s large area has also allowed it to develop a unique and vibrant culture. The city is home to a number of world-renowned museums, theaters, and historical sites. St. Petersburg is also known for its beautiful architecture, including the Hermitage Museum, the Winter Palace, and the Peter and Paul Fortress.
The following table provides a more detailed look at the connection between “Area: 1,439 square kilometers (555 square miles)” and “where is st petersburg on the map”:
| Area | St. Petersburg |
|---|---|
| Definition | Area is the measure of the surface of a two-dimensional shape. |
| St. Petersburg’s area | 1,439 square kilometers (555 square miles) |
| Significance | St. Petersburg’s large area has allowed it to accommodate a diverse range of industries and businesses, develop a unique and vibrant culture, and become a major economic, cultural, and political center. |
Population
The population of St. Petersburg is 5,383,890 (2021), making it the second-largest city in Russia after Moscow. The city’s large population is a significant factor in its status as a major economic, cultural, and political center.
The large population of St. Petersburg provides the city with a large workforce, which is essential for its diverse range of industries and businesses. The city is a major center for shipbuilding, manufacturing, and tourism. The city is also home to a large number of educational and research institutions, including St. Petersburg State University, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Russia.
The large population of St. Petersburg also contributes to the city’s vibrant culture. The city is home to a number of world-renowned museums, theaters, and historical sites. St. Petersburg is also known for its beautiful architecture, including the Hermitage Museum, the Winter Palace, and the Peter and Paul Fortress.
The large population of St. Petersburg also presents challenges for the city. The city must provide housing, transportation, and other services for its large population. The city must also address issues such as traffic congestion, pollution, and crime.
Despite the challenges, the large population of St. Petersburg is a major asset to the city. The city’s large population provides it with a strong economy, a vibrant culture, and a diverse workforce.
| Population | St. Petersburg |
|---|---|
| Definition | Population is the total number of people living in a particular area. |
| St. Petersburg’s population | 5,383,890 (2021) |
| Significance | St. Petersburg’s large population is a major factor in its status as a major economic, cultural, and political center. |
Climate
The climate of St. Petersburg is humid continental, characterized by warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The city’s location on the Baltic Sea moderates its climate somewhat, but it is still subject to the cold air masses that sweep across Russia from the north and east.
- Cold winters: The average temperature in January is -6C (21F), and the city can experience snowfall from October to April. The Neva River, which flows through St. Petersburg, often freezes over during the winter months.
- Warm summers: The average temperature in July is 18C (64F), and the city enjoys long days with up to 18 hours of sunlight. The city’s parks and gardens are a popular destination for residents and tourists alike during the summer months.
- Humid: The humidity in St. Petersburg is relatively high throughout the year, averaging around 75%. This can make the summers feel even warmer and the winters feel even colder.
- Rainfall: St. Petersburg receives an average of 635 millimeters (25 inches) of precipitation per year, which is spread fairly evenly throughout the year. The city is prone to fog, especially in the spring and fall.
The humid continental climate of St. Petersburg has a significant impact on the city’s lifestyle and culture. The cold winters encourage indoor activities, such as visiting museums and theaters. The warm summers allow for outdoor activities, such as boating and swimming. The city’s climate also influences its architecture, with many buildings featuring thick walls and small windows to keep out the cold.
Time zone
St. Petersburg is located in the Eastern European Time Zone (EET), which is two hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). This means that when it is noon in St. Petersburg, it is 10:00 AM in London and 5:00 AM in New York City.
St. Petersburg’s time zone is important for a number of reasons. First, it allows the city to coordinate its activities with other cities in Russia and Europe. Second, it helps to regulate the city’s sleep-wake cycle and ensure that residents are getting enough sleep.
There are a number of challenges associated with St. Petersburg’s time zone. One challenge is that it can be difficult for residents to adjust to the time change when traveling to other parts of the world. Another challenge is that the time change can disrupt the city’s sleep-wake cycle, especially during the summer months when the days are longer.
Despite these challenges, St. Petersburg’s time zone is an important part of the city’s identity and culture. It helps to connect the city to other parts of Russia and Europe, and it helps to regulate the city’s sleep-wake cycle.
| Time zone | St. Petersburg |
|---|---|
| Definition | A time zone is a region of the globe that observes a uniform standard time for legal, commercial, and social purposes. |
| St. Petersburg’s time zone | Eastern European Time Zone (EET), which is two hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). |
| Significance | St. Petersburg’s time zone helps the city to coordinate its activities with other cities in Russia and Europe, and it helps to regulate the city’s sleep-wake cycle. |
| Challenges | There are a number of challenges associated with St. Petersburg’s time zone, including the difficulty of adjusting to the time change when traveling to other parts of the world and the disruption of the city’s sleep-wake cycle, especially during the summer months when the days are longer. |
International airport
Pulkovo Airport (LED) is the primary international airport serving St. Petersburg, Russia. It is located approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles) south of the city center. Pulkovo Airport is a major hub for domestic and international flights, and it is the fourth-busiest airport in Russia by passenger traffic.
- Connectivity: Pulkovo Airport is a major gateway to St. Petersburg and the surrounding region. It is connected to over 150 destinations in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The airport’s convenient location and extensive flight network make it easy for travelers to reach St. Petersburg from all over the world.
- Economic impact: Pulkovo Airport is a major economic driver for St. Petersburg. The airport generates jobs and revenue for the city, and it helps to promote tourism and trade. The airport’s expansion and modernization projects have also contributed to the city’s economic growth.
- Convenience: Pulkovo Airport is a modern and well-equipped airport. It offers a wide range of amenities and services for passengers, including duty-free shopping, restaurants, and lounges. The airport also has excellent public transportation connections to the city center and other parts of St. Petersburg.
- Historical significance: Pulkovo Airport has a long and storied history. It was first built in the 1930s, and it played a major role in the defense of Leningrad during World War II. The airport was also used as a base for Soviet space missions during the Cold War.
Pulkovo Airport is an important part of St. Petersburg’s infrastructure and economy. It is a major gateway to the city, and it plays a vital role in the city’s development.
Frequently Asked Questions about St. Petersburg’s Location
This section addresses common questions and misconceptions regarding where St. Petersburg is on the map, providing informative answers based on accurate and reliable sources.
Question 1: Where exactly is St. Petersburg located?
Answer: St. Petersburg is situated in western Russia, at the head of the Gulf of Finland on the Baltic Sea. It lies close to the border with Finland and is the second-largest city in Russia after Moscow.
Question 2: What are the geographical coordinates of St. Petersburg?
Answer: The latitude of St. Petersburg is 59.9343 N, and its longitude is 30.3351 E.
Question 3: Which federal district and economic region does St. Petersburg belong to?
Answer: St. Petersburg is located in the Northwestern Federal District and the Northern Economic Region of Russia.
Question 4: What is the altitude of St. Petersburg above sea level?
Answer: St. Petersburg’s altitude is approximately 16 meters (52 feet) above sea level.
Question 5: How large is St. Petersburg in terms of area?
Answer: St. Petersburg covers an area of 1,439 square kilometers (555 square miles), making it the fourth-largest city in Russia by area.
Question 6: What is the nearest international airport to St. Petersburg?
Answer: Pulkovo Airport (LED) is the primary international airport serving St. Petersburg, located approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles) south of the city center.
Summary: St. Petersburg holds a significant position in western Russia, with its proximity to the Baltic Sea and its status as a major economic and cultural hub. Understanding its geographical location and key characteristics provides a deeper appreciation of the city’s unique identity and its contributions to the wider region.
Transition: To further explore the diverse aspects of St. Petersburg, let’s delve into its rich history, vibrant culture, and captivating attractions.
Tips for Understanding St. Petersburg’s Location
Comprehending the geographical context of St. Petersburg enhances our appreciation of its historical, cultural, and economic significance. Here are several tips to help you grasp the city’s location effectively:
Tip 1: Use Geographic Coordinates: Precisely identify St. Petersburg’s position on the globe using its latitude (59.9343 N) and longitude (30.3351 E). This provides a numerical reference point for its location.
Tip 2: Visualize Its Position on a Map: Locate St. Petersburg on a map of Russia or Europe. Observe its proximity to the Baltic Sea, the Gulf of Finland, and neighboring countries like Finland and Estonia. This visual representation aids in understanding its regional context.
Tip 3: Understand Its Administrative Divisions: Recognize that St. Petersburg is part of the Northwestern Federal District and the Northern Economic Region of Russia. These divisions provide insights into the city’s administrative and economic relationships within the wider Russian federation.
Tip 4: Consider Its Altitude: St. Petersburg’s altitude of approximately 16 meters (52 feet) above sea level influences various aspects, including its climate, susceptibility to flooding, and the design of its infrastructure.
Tip 5: Note Its Distance from Major Cities: Determine the approximate distances between St. Petersburg and other significant Russian cities, such as Moscow, Nizhny Novgorod, and Kazan. This helps establish its relative position within the country.
Tip 6: Identify Its International Airport: Familiarize yourself with Pulkovo Airport (LED), the primary international airport serving St. Petersburg. Its location and connectivity provide insights into the city’s accessibility and global connections.
Summary: By incorporating these tips, you can develop a comprehensive understanding of St. Petersburg’s location, its relationship to surrounding areas, and its significance within the broader geographical context of Russia and Europe.
Transition: With a clear grasp of St. Petersburg’s geographical setting, we can now explore its captivating history, vibrant culture, and the myriad attractions that make it a global destination.
Conclusion
Our exploration of “where is St. Petersburg on the map” has provided a comprehensive overview of the city’s geographical context and its implications. Situated in western Russia, on the Baltic Sea, St. Petersburg holds a strategic position that has shaped its historical, cultural, and economic development.
Understanding St. Petersburg’s location is crucial for appreciating its unique identity and its contributions to Russia and the wider world. The city’s proximity to Europe has fostered cultural exchange and economic partnerships, while its position on the Baltic Sea has made it a vital port and naval base. Moreover, its location within Russia has connected it to the country’s vast hinterland, enabling trade and resource sharing.
As we continue to explore St. Petersburg, its rich history, vibrant culture, and captivating attractions will further reveal the significance of its geographical location. By delving into the city’s past and present, we gain a deeper understanding of how its unique position has shaped its identity and its role in the global landscape.
