For visitors landing at Pulkovo International Airport, getting a local SIM card is one excellent option for staying connected.
This guide will outline everything about purchasing a SIM card at Pulkovo Airport.
Table of Contents
I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Pulkovo Airport
Pulkovo Airport has a few options when it comes to purchasing SIM cards on arrival. Knowing the locations and working hours of stores that sell SIMs can help you efficiently acquire one when you land.
1. Cell Phone Providers Stores
The major cell phone carriers in Russia – MTS, Beeline, and Megafon – all have stores located in Pulkovo Airport. These stores are typically found in the public area of the terminal beyond passport control, on the 1st floor near exits and baggage claims.
They offer SIM cards for their respective networks with a range of data and calling plans to choose from. Their working hours correspond with typical flight arrival times, from early morning to late evening.
2. Convenience Stores
Smaller convenience stores scattered throughout the airport also commonly sell SIM cards from various providers.
These include the 24-hour convenience store chains Aeroflotsky and Dufry, which can be handy options if you arrive outside normal store hours.
3. Online Purchase & Airport Pickup
Ordering a SIM card online ahead of your trip and picking it up upon arrival is another option. Providers like Beeline allow online orders that you can then collect at Airport Terminal 1. Check LED’s maps to find easily.
This ensures you have the SIM ready to use immediately after landing. Just factor in time to swing by the pickup desk on your way out of the airport.
II. SIM Card at Pulkovo Airport Options and Costs
Here is an overview of what kind of plans, speeds, and costs you can expect:
| Carrier | Product | Allowance | Validity | Cost (RUB) | Cost (USD) | Purchase Location |
| MTS | Prepaid SIM | 500MB Data | 3 Days | 300 | ~$4 | Kiosks near baggage claim |
| Tele2 | Pay-As-You-Go SIM | SIM only | N/A | 150 | ~$2 | Vending machines before security |
| Megafon | Starter SIM | 1GB Data, 200 Minutes | 30 Days | 400 | ~$5 | Customer service counters |
| Beeline | Travel Pack | 1GB Data | 7 Days | 550 | ~$7 | Online purchase or Kiosks near baggage claim |
| Yota | Prepaid SIM | 500MB Data | 3 Days | 300 | ~$4 | Newsagents in Arrivals |
| Airport WiFi | Rental SIM | WiFi access | 24 Hours | 500 | ~$6 | Service desks |
Note: Remember to have your unlocked phone and valid passport ready!
III. What You Need to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Pulkovo Airport
There are a few things should prepare in advance:
- Have Proper Documentation: Be ready to show your valid passport when making a SIM card purchase.
- Unlock Your Phone: Your smartphone will need to be unlocked to accept a new Russian SIM card
- Know Your SIM Card Size
- Have Cash & Credit Card Ready
Taking these preparatory steps will set you up for a quick and seamless SIM card purchase at Pulkovo Airport. You’ll be connected and ready to start your Russian adventure in no time!
IV. eSIM as an Alternative to SIM Card at Pulkovo Airport
While physical SIM cards are widely available, tourists may also consider eSIM technology as an alternative.
- Easy Activation: No need to locate and visit a store inside the airport terminal.
- Multi SIM Capabilities: Helpful for managing both numbers.
- Remote Management: Plans can be purchased and renewed online as needed.
- Security: No physical SIM cards swap needed, that improves security, as you won’t have to hand your phone over to clerks while traveling.
Top providers like Russia eSIM offer global eSIM plans that can be set up before you depart. Let’s check their plans:
V. FAQs About Getting a SIM card at Pulkovo Airport
What languages are supported at SIM stores?
English is limited. MTS provides some English support but other providers less so. Having Google Translate on your phone helps overcome any language barriers when purchasing SIMs at the airport.
Can I use a SIM from another country?
Russia requires registering SIM cards locally, so you will need to acquire a Russia SIM. International roaming with your home SIM is very expensive.
How long does SIM registration take?
Just 5-10 minutes for the stores to get your SIM activated with your passport details during purchase.
Can I buy online for airport pickup?
Yes, providers like Beeline allow online SIM purchase and collection at Pulkovo Airport upon arrival. Saves time!
Are there sign-up contracts or credit checks?
No, prepaid tourist SIMs only require showing your passport. No long-term contracts or credit approvals needed.
How do SIMs work on buses, trains and the metro?
Russia SIMs function normally across all public transit systems, providing voice and mobile data access. Coverage is generally reliable.
Picking up a local SIM card when you land is the simplest way to stay connected during your travels in Russia. Following this guide will have you up and running quickly when you arrive at Pulkovo Airport.
VI. Final Words
Pulkovo Airport offers easy SIM card purchasing right in the terminal through provider stores, convenience shops, vending machines and online order pickup.
Alternatively, Russia eSIM provides a convenient digital option for connectivity as well.
