Saint Petersburg, Leningrad Region to Vologda, Northwestern Federal District from €12: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

• On your train journey from Saint Petersburg to Vologda, consider the catering services provided by the Russian Railways. Most trains will have a dining car where you can purchase a selection of hot meals, snacks, and beverages. You can expect typical Russian cuisine, so be sure to try local dishes like borscht or blinis. Additionally, some trains may offer a food trolley service that comes to your seat with a smaller menu of items.

• The train operators for the route from Saint Petersburg to Vologda include Russian Railways and a few regional operators. The seating options range from Economy Class, which is budget-friendly but with basic amenities, to First Class, offering more spacious seating and greater privacy. You can check schedules and book tickets via the official Russian Railways website at rzd.ru or use the Tutu.ru booking platform, which provides additional train options and reviews.

• Upon arrival at Vologda Railway Station, expect to find basic services such as restrooms. However, showers are generally not available. You can leave your luggage at the station's luggage storage service - it is recommended that you check the hours of operation ahead of your trip. To get to the city center, the fastest way is to take bus number 1 or taxi services right outside the station, which are readily available and will get you to central Vologda in approximately 15-20 minutes.

• Consider booking your tickets in advance through the PTK website (ptkbus.ru) to guarantee your seat, as this popular route can fill up quickly.

• Bring snacks and a refillable water bottle for the 9h 45m journey, as the bus may not stop frequently and food options might be limited along the way.

• Upon arriving at Vologda Bus Station, take note that the station has a small café and a convenience store for refreshments, and make use of local taxis or rideshare apps that are easily accessible outside the bus terminal for efficient transportation into the city.