What to Wear in Saint Petersburg in Fall: A Detailed Guide

Got a fall trip planned to Saint Petersburg, Russia? Saint Petersburg can be fun to visit in the fall, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is cold and dry, with temperatures averaging around 49°F (that's 9°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?

First and foremost, you'll need to dress warmly, as the temperatures can drop below freezing. A coat, scarf, and hat are going to be essential. Layering is also key, so consider wearing a sweater or vest under your coat. Boots with some grip are a good choice of footwear, as they'll keep your feet warm and dry whatever the conditions.

In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Saint Petersburg in fall—whether you're visiting the Hermitage Museum, exploring the Peter and Paul Fortress, strolling along the Nevsky Prospekt, or visiting the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood.

🔗 What should women wear in Saint Petersburg in fall?

Saint Petersburg in fall is generally cold, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: sweaters, jeans, thermal baselayers, long-sleeved shirts, and heavy coat. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Saint Petersburg has to offer.

🔗 Sweaters

Sweaters are super versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for both day and evening wear in Saint Petersburg. They also take up less space than other types of warm clothing, so you can pack more sweaters into your suitcase without sacrificing style. When choosing sweaters for travel, look for ones that are made of wrinkle-resistant fabric, such as Merino wool or cashmere. These materials will help to keep you warm without adding bulk.

If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Saint Petersburg, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

Any of these should work:

🔗 Thermal baselayers

As Saint Petersburg in fall has a colder climate, you'll want to make sure you pack some thermal baselayers. Thermal baselayers are designed to keep you warm by trapping your body heat, and they can be worn under your regular clothes. They're especially useful for activities like skiing or hiking, where you're likely to work up a sweat. When choosing thermal baselayers, look for ones made of a moisture-wicking material like Merino wool. You'll also want to choose baselayers that fit snugly but not too tightly. With a little planning, thermal baselayers can help you enjoy your Saint Petersburg trip despite the cold weather.

Here are some options I'd recommend:

🔗 Long-sleeved shirts

Long-sleeved shirts are an essential part of any travel wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, and they offer sun protection on bright days. When choosing a long-sleeved shirt for Saint Petersburg, it's important to look for one that is comfortable and breathable. A lightweight cotton shirt is a good option, as it will keep you cool in warm weather and can be layered under a sweater or jacket when the temperature drops. It's also a good idea to choose a shirt in a neutral color that can be easily paired with other items in your suitcase.

Here are some of my favorites:

🔗 Heavy coat

You're definitely going to want to have a coat with you in Saint Petersburg, for those icy cold snaps. When choosing a coat, look for one that is both waterproof and windproof. A hood is also a nice feature to have, as it will help protect your head and face from the elements. And make sure to pack your coat in an easily accessible place so you can grab it quickly if the weather takes a turn for the worse when you arrive.

Why not grab yourself something new before you go:

🔗 What should men wear in Saint Petersburg in fall?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: cardigans, hat and scarf, thermal baselayers, warm coat, and button-down shirts or polos. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Saint Petersburg in comfort and style.

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Saint Petersburg in fall. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.

Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:

🔗 Hat and scarf

A trip to Saint Petersburg in fall can be a wonderful experience, but it's important to be prepared for the chilly weather. A hat and scarf are essential accessories to keep you warm. A good hat will protect your head and ears from the cold, while a scarf can help to insulate your neck and trap heat. A statement beanie or colorful scarf will also really make your outfit pop.

Here's a few ideas to get you started:

🔗 Thermal baselayers

As Saint Petersburg in fall has a colder climate, you'll want to make sure you pack some thermal baselayers. Thermal baselayers are designed to keep you warm by trapping your body heat, and they can be worn under your regular clothes. They're especially useful for activities like skiing or hiking, where you're likely to work up a sweat. When choosing thermal baselayers, look for ones made of a moisture-wicking material like Merino wool. You'll also want to choose baselayers that fit snugly but not too tightly. With a little planning, thermal baselayers can help you enjoy your Saint Petersburg trip despite the cold weather.

Here's a few ideas to get you started:

🔗 Warm coat

A good coat will keep you warm in inclement weather and can also be a stylish addition to your travel wardrobe. When choosing a coat, look for one that is made from insulating materials such as wool or down (or synthetic equivalents). A hood is also a helpful feature, as it will protect your head and face from the elements. If you plan on doing any outdoor activities, such as hiking or skiing, make sure to choose a coat that is waterproof and windproof.

Why not grab yourself something new before you go:

🔗 Button-down shirts or polos

Button-down shirts or polos are always a good idea to pack. They don't wrinkle easily and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. They're also perfect for layering when the weather gets cooler at night. Pick ones that are comfortable and breathable, and ideally lightweight too. It's also a good idea to choose neutral colors like white, black, or blue as they can be easily teamed with other pieces in your wardrobe.

Here's a few ideas to get you started:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Saint Petersburg will help make your fall visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Saint Petersburg has to offer!