The full story
Route taxis often called marshrutki historically supplemented fixed public transport with smaller vehicles and flexible stopping practices Their role and routes can change substantially as municipal services evolve so no old fare route number or boarding custom should be assumed current Use one only after confirming that the service still operates where it stops how payment works and whether luggage is practical Destinations outside the centre may have clearer municipal bus or rail alternatives The compact vehicles can be difficult for travelers who cannot read the route display or communicate a stop For a first visit favor the metro scheduled rail and numbered city buses where information is easier to verify Treat a route taxi as a specific researched solution rather than the default way to move around Saint Petersburg.