St. Petersburg offers countless ways to discover its beauty, but few experiences are as distinctive as riding the retro tourist tram. This vehicle is a faithful replica of the LM‑33 «American» model, which carried residents of Leningrad from 1933 until 1979. For decades, it was part of everyday life, remembered for its reliability and iconic design. Today, the tram has been reborn as a cultural attraction, combining vintage charm with modern convenience.
The journey begins at the Museum of Urban Electric Transport, located at 77 Sredniy Prospekt on Vasilievsky Island. This museum preserves the history of trams and trolleybuses in St. Petersburg, and boarding the tourist tram here feels like stepping directly into that story. The nearest metro stations are Vasileostrovskaya and Gorny Institut, both within walking distance.
Route of the tourist tram
Click the link to see the tourist tram route map in full size.
The tram follows a scenic path through the historic center, crossing bridges and avenues that showcase the city’s grandeur. Along the way, passengers enjoy panoramic views of embankments, squares, and architectural landmarks. The route includes:
Departure from the Museum of Urban Electric Transport, 77 Sredniy Prospekt, Vasilievsky Island
Ride along Sredniy Prospekt of Vasilievsky Island
Crossing the Tuchkov Bridge over the Neva River
Journey along Bolshoy Prospekt (Petrogradskaya Side)
Passing through Troitsky Bridge with views of the Peter and Paul Fortress
Moving along Nevsky Prospekt, the city’s main avenue
Crossing the Anichkov Bridge with its famous horse statues
Return via Sadovaya Street and Sredniy Prospekt, Vasilievsky Island back to the museum
This one‑hour ride offers a relaxed pace, allowing visitors to absorb the atmosphere and listen to stories about the city through the audio guide.
Atmosphere onboard
Inside, the design recalls the 1930s, with wooden details and a nostalgic layout. At the same time, the tram is equipped with Wi‑Fi, audio guides (currently available only in Russian), and USB charging ports. This blend of old and new makes the ride both authentic and convenient. The smooth motion of the tram creates a relaxed rhythm, while the wide windows open panoramic views of the city’s architecture. With only thirty‑three seats and no standing passengers allowed, every rider enjoys comfort and space.
Practical information
The tourist tram operates daily, including weekends and holidays. In the autumn and winter season of 2025–26, departures are scheduled at 10:00, 13:00, and 16:00. During the high tourist season, ticket prices rise slightly and the number of daily departures increases, giving visitors more options to fit the tram ride into their sightseeing plans.
Tickets are sold online through the museum’s website ( https://getmuseum.ru/T1 ) and cost 600 rubles on weekdays and 650 rubles on weekends and holidays in the low season. Seating is limited, so advance booking is recommended.
Why it’s worth experiencing
The tourist tram is more than a sightseeing ride. It is a cultural immersion into the everyday life of St. Petersburg as it once was, combined with the convenience of modern amenities. The vintage design, the smooth ride, and the views from its wide windows create a memorable experience that connects past and present. For foreign visitors, it offers a unique perspective on the city — not just its landmarks, but its living history. Riding the tram is a way to see St. Petersburg through the eyes of its residents from decades ago, while enjoying the comfort expected by today’s traveler.
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